Rutgers graduate arrested for posting anti-Hamas flyers on campus

Yiorgos Maravelias, a Rutgers Law School graduate, was arrested for posting anti-Hamas flyers on the Newark campus. His actions were a response to pro-Palestinian demonstrations that criticized Israel's actions in Gaza. Maravelias claimed that he was exercising his right to free speech, as he felt that the campus environment was dominated by a single viewpoint. He faced student conduct charges, which the university stated would not be pursued since he had graduated, but could be reinstated if he re-enrolled. The university had a signage policy that prohibited posting flyers on bare walls, which Maravelias allegedly violated. He argued that his flyers were placed in the same area as pro-Palestinian flyers, and he felt that his speech was being censored. Maravelias expressed frustration over the perceived bias against his viewpoint, stating that he was simply participating in the discourse on campus. The situation escalated when police intervened after Maravelias refused to stop posting his flyers. He was told that his actions were inflammatory, and he was subsequently arrested. This incident has raised concerns among veterans and alumni about the university's commitment to free speech and the rights of students to express differing opinions. The case has sparked discussions about the balance between free expression and campus policies, with some alumni expressing disappointment in the university's handling of the situation. Maravelias's case highlights ongoing tensions surrounding political discourse on college campuses, particularly regarding sensitive topics like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.