This morning, five Tampa protesters entered not guilty pleas after the state attorney charged them with both misdemeanors and felonies related to a March protest at the University of South Florida.
The action was in response to Gov. Ron DeSantis’ push to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion in Florida colleges. Protesters also demanded a meeting to discuss increasing Black enrollment with USF President Rhea Law, but were met with force by law enforcement.
Video from the incident appears to show USF Police Chief Christopher Daniel assaulting a student.
Outside the courthouse in downtown Tampa, members of Students for a Democratic Society were joined by roughly 30 community members—including Harrison Lundy, who’s running for Florida House in District 69—in support of the three students, one alumni and campus worker facing charges.
