Seeing the LAPD in riot gear taking down a pro-Palestinian encampment at USC really underscores the problematic nature of how we handle protests in this country. It's concerning to see such a militarized response to what was described as a peaceful demonstration. Freedom of speech and the right to assemble are core principles that should be respected, not quashed with an overwhelming show of force. This incident raises serious questions about the balance between maintaining order and respecting individuals’ rights to express dissenting opinions. It's a slippery slope when the government starts deciding which protests are allowed and which ones get shut down through force.