Harvard Strike Chaos: Fire Alarm, Protests, and Panel Aborted
Harvard University’s academic worker strike led to a chaotic event with fire alarms, protests, and a canceled panel discussion.
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Harvard University’s ongoing academic worker strike escalated into chaos on Thursday when a fire alarm was triggered during a panel discussion featuring comedian Stephen Colbert and cellist Yo-Yo Ma, leading to an evacuation of the packed Sanders Theatre. The incident occurred as approximately 80 members of the Harvard Graduate Student Union (HGSU) picketed outside the building, according to The Harvard Crimson.
Panel Aborted Amid Protests
Colbert and Ma were about 40 minutes into their discussion when the fire alarm sounded. The HGSU, which has been demanding better wages, family benefits, and protections for noncitizen workers, had warned the panelists earlier in the week to relocate, reschedule, or cancel the event. The union cited Colbert’s history of supporting collective bargaining and Yo-Yo Ma’s status as a Harvard alumnus.
Attendees reported hearing the protesters’ chants from inside the venue, though no fire was actually present. University police confirmed there was no fire outbreak. The HGSU denied responsibility for triggering the alarm, with President Denish K. Jaswal stating, “We would not do such an action. We were out here to peacefully picket.”
Strike Continues Amid Criticism
The HGSU, with around 2,600 members, has been on strike for over two years, following more than 54 bargaining sessions without resolution. The union’s actions have drawn criticism from university authorities, who have warned that protesters violating policies will face disciplinary action.
Similar disruptions have occurred before, including an incident on October 27 when picketers using megaphones and air horns disrupted an exam. Students were forced to use earplugs and noise-canceling headphones. Harvard College Dean David J. Deming and Dean of Undergraduate Education Amanda Claybaugh expressed concern over the disruption, emphasizing the need for students to take exams without interference.
Professor David Jones, Chair of the Harvard History of Science, criticized the protesters’ actions, calling them a “sonic assault” and not the typical form of peaceful protest.
Source: Daily Caller
