Loyola University New Orleans Student Suspensions

Summary

In late April 2024, Loyola University New Orleans students, along with Tulane University peers and members of Students for a Democratic Society (SDS), organized a pro-Palestine encampment that lasted about 30 hours. The demonstration aimed to pressure the university to sever ties with companies connected to Israel’s military. Early on May 1, university police dismantled the encampment, arresting several participants.

Following these events, Loyola University suspended student Carson Cruse, an SDS member, after he spoke at a public hearing at the Port of New Orleans supporting the Stop Helping Israel’s Ports campaign. During his speech, Cruse criticized Loyola’s General Counsel—also a member of the Port Board—accusing her of punishing protesters and supporting genocide. The university charged Cruse with promoting an unregistered student organization and upheld his suspension despite his acquittal on related charges.

Cruse’s suspension became a focal point for concerns about free speech and political activism on campus. In February 2025, his appeal for reinstatement was denied, and his suspension was extended through May 10, 2025, delaying his expected graduation. Supporters have continued to demand his reinstatement and the dropping of all sanctions related to Palestine activism.

In addition to Cruse, fellow student Juleea Berthelot faced disciplinary actions. Berthelot was placed on probation through May 16, 2025, due to her involvement in the encampment. The university accused her of disruptive conduct and failure to comply with administrative instructions, citing her May 2024 arrest at the encampment for misdemeanor trespassing. Both Cruse and Berthelot were found not guilty in September 2024.