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The University of Michigan student government, which is controlled by a pro-Palestinian group called Shut It Down, is withholding funds for all activities until the university commits to divesting from Israel and companies that profit from the war in Gaza, The New York Times reported.
University regents have so far stood firm, saying that divestment is off the table; as a result, the activities of many student organizations and club sports teams have come to a standstill.
“It’s incredibly stressful,” Nicolette Kleinhoffer, president of the university’s ballroom dance team, told the Times. The team, which relies on funding from the student government, is currently unable to cover the cost of competitions, a coach or even rehearsal space.
Other groups that have been affected include the Ultimate Frisbee team as well as student services like shuttles to the airport.
The government takeover and funding stalemate appear to represent a new strategy for pro-Palestinian activists on campus.
A spokesperson for the university said it will make funding available to registered student organizations who apply for funding for the fall semester and it will remain in place until a budget is passed.
Note: this story has been updated to include a statement from the University of Michigan.
