On Jan. 20, approximately 200 people rallied in front of the federal courthouse in Eugene, calling for an end to the Israel-Hamas conflict and an immediate ceasefire.
“What’s happening in Palestine is incredibly wrong and deeply disturbing. And the U.S. response is even more disturbing,” a demonstrator, who wished to only be referred to as Julia, said.
Brayden, a demonstrator who wished only to give his first name, said, “I’m sickened by the genocide happening there [in Gaza], and the inadequate response by the United States, other countries and NATO.”
The protestors, who gathered in the rain, carried signs that read “End All US aid to Israel,” “From the river to the sea,” and “Free Palestine,” among other slogans.
The crowd then marched through downtown Eugene, 13th street and finished the march on the University of Oregon main campus.
“I’m here today to support Palestine and be against the genocide that’s happening there by Israel,” Adelaide Brown, a second-year UO student, said.
Protestors then entered the Erb Memorial Union, where they stayed for approximately 20 minutes making speeches and chanting slogans.
Dr. Geoffrey Gordon, a Jewish American, spoke at the rally. He said he demands an “immediate ceasefire,” and he is protesting “ to recognize the martyrs of Palestinian resistance, whether their tool of liberation was a rocket, a pebble, a stethoscope, a camera or a poem.”
Geoffrey continued, saying President Biden is “complicit in genocide.”
“This is a betrayal of our trust and a betrayal of his own humanity. President Biden is unfit to lead America and should resign in disgrace,” Geoffrey said.
“F–ck Joe Biden,” demonstrators said in response.
The crowd gathered in front of Justice Bean and Global Scholars Hall, chanting and encouraging UO students to exit their dorms and join them.
The protestors attempted to march onto Franklin Boulevard from Villard Street, but were blocked by uniformed EPD officers.
Many also chanted the slogans “Long live the Intifada” and “Biden Biden you can’t hide, we charge you with genocide.”

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On Jan. 20, approximately 200 people rallied in front of the federal courthouse in Eugene, calling for an end to the Israel-Hamas conflict and an immediate ceasefire. The protestors continued to march to UO campus. (Lehman-Winters)