TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – Some University of Arizona students who support Palestine gathered on campus for a rally on Friday, October 18th.

Compared to previous pro-Palestinian protests the university has experienced, this one was quite small.

After the summer break, students wanted to build momentum again, which one of the organizers told 13 News Nationwide.

“They are investing in themselves and trying to see if there is momentum for something similar here on campus,” said Muna Hijazi, state coordinator for the Arizona Palestine Solidarity Alliance.

She explained that U of A students have reached out to her organization for support.

Additionally, instead of camps, summer vacation actually gave many students an opportunity to pause and strategize, which is why they encourage students to strike.

Hijazi also spoke about the concerns she and others have about the university and free speech.

“It is concerning that UA is having a difficult time maintaining freedom of expression for the entire community,” Hijazi said.

However, UA spokesman Mitch Zak said that the university welcomes all free expression, but that the university must draw the line when it affects students and their education.

“The goal is to allow free expression without disrupting the university or others,” Zak said.

He continued that Friday's rally was an approved event and that organizers had properly contacted the dean of students about holding a rally and march on campus.

The scene marked a drastic change from the last major pro-Palestinian protest in April that resulted from it Some students were arrested after a clash with police over an encampment they set up on campus.

Zak said communication between the university and those on campus is one of the reasons there has not been another incident of this type.

“The university has worked really hard throughout the fall semester to communicate with students and faculty,” Zak said.

The rally temporarily mobilized in the area where former President Barack Obama spoke. However, 13 News was told the group received a warning from the dean of students to stop reinforcing outside of approved times and the group complied.

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