The University of Maryland (UMD) has announced that it will only allow university-sponsored events to take place on campus on October 7, 2023, a decision that has stirred controversy among student groups. This date marks one year since terrorist attacks in Israel resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and hundreds of hostages taken.

University President Darryl Pines communicated the decision in an email to the campus community, citing “an abundance of caution” as the primary reason. The move effectively cancels a planned event by the Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) group, which had reserved space on campus for that day.

“We concluded to host only university-sponsored events that promote reflection on this day,” Pines stated. “All other expressive events will be held prior to October 7, and then resume on October 8 in accordance with time, place and manner considerations of the First Amendment.”

The decision has drawn mixed reactions from various campus groups and political figures. UMD’s Jewish Student Union and Hillel expressed support for the university’s action, thanking leadership for prioritizing their “physical and psychological safety” on what they described as “a day of grief.” However, they also questioned why the situation was allowed to escalate to this point.

In contrast, UMD’s SJP, in conjunction with Jewish Voices for Peace, strongly condemned the decision. In a statement released via Instagram, the group expressed anger at what they view as a denial of their right to hold space and host a joint vigil. They argued that their request violated no policies and was within their rights as a recognized student organization.

The controversy has attracted attention beyond the campus. Angela Alsobrooks, Democratic U.S. Senate Candidate, while supporting the decision, emphasized the importance of both student safety and freedom of speech.

The Baltimore Zionist District also weighed in, expressing ongoing concerns about the safety of Jewish students on campus. Caren Leven, the organization’s executive director, voiced apprehension about the university’s reputation, stating, “We don’t want the University of Maryland to be known as the space where Jewish students from other states do not feel safe.”

As an alternative, the university plans to host a “Day of Dialogue” on October 7, though this approach has been met with skepticism from some quarters. UMD Hillel still intends to host a memorial event in its building, with necessary safety precautions in place.