Two individuals were detained by police on the campus of Penn State University during a disturbance at a Real Women’s Day rally where Riley Gaines was expected to attend. Videos on social media captured the incident. One person knocked objects off a table, and another shouted in the face of someone, calling him “transphobic” in reference to a sign he was holding before flipping over the table.
An officer arrived on the scene and attempted to bring one person into custody, resulting in heated exchanges and strong language. The video later showed the two individuals in handcuffs next to a police vehicle, with disorderly conduct cited as the reason for their arrest.
Riley Gaines confirmed the arrests, and the university police did not immediately respond to inquiries. The incident occurred during protests at Gaines’ appearance, where demonstrators chanted “trans lives matter.” There had been confusion regarding the cancellation of her appearance, with the university clarifying that it hadn’t been canceled due to the school’s obligation to uphold free speech as a public institution, even when controversial views are presented.
Please note that this incident reflects ongoing debates and tensions surrounding free speech and differing viewpoints on college campuses.