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Howard University sit-ins facts for kids

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The Howard University sit-ins were a series of peaceful protests by students at Howard University in Washington, D.C. in 2018. Students were upset because they believed the university's leaders were misusing money. The protests started on March 30 and ended on April 6, 2018.

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Howard University sit-ins
Date March 30, 2018 (2018-03-30)–April 6, 2018 (2018-04-06)
Location
Caused by
  • Misappropriation of money
Goals
  • The resignation of Frederick and the board of trustees.
  • That students "have the power to democratically influence the decisions of the administration and the board of trustees by way of popular vote."
  • Having Howard do more to combat food insecurity and gentrification in the area.
  • The disarming of campus police, and the creation of a police oversight committee.
  • The hiring of more school counselors
  • The creation of a grievance system in which faculty can be held accountable for their "language and actions toward students and marginalized identities."
Methods Sit-ins
Parties to the civil conflict
Lead figures
Alexis McKenney

Why Students Protested

Students at Howard University had several reasons for their protests. They were concerned about how the university was spending its money. They believed some funds were not being used correctly.

Student Demands

The students had clear goals for their sit-in. They wanted the university's president, Dr. Wayne A.I. Frederick, and the board of trustees to step down. They also wanted students to have more say in important decisions. This meant students wanted to vote on how the university was run.

Students also wanted the university to help with local issues. They asked for more support to fight food insecurity. This means making sure everyone has enough food. They also wanted help with gentrification. This is when a neighborhood changes, making it hard for some people to afford to live there.

Other demands focused on campus safety and support. Students wanted campus police to not carry weapons. They also asked for a group to watch over the police. They felt more school counselors were needed to help students. Finally, they wanted a way for students to report problems with teachers or staff. This would make sure everyone was treated fairly.

What Happened During the Sit-ins

The protests were a type of nonviolent action called a sit-in. This means students occupied a building or area peacefully. They stayed there to show their strong feelings and to get attention for their demands. The sit-in lasted for about a week.

How People Reacted

News outlets like The Chronicle of Higher Education reported on the protests. They suggested that the Howard University sit-in could inspire similar protests. Students at other universities might also speak up about how their schools handle money and social issues.

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