The Student Center at Lincoln Park Campus of DePaul University was temporarily locked down and later reopened on May 16, 2024, amid the removal of an encampment on the campus. The university's President Robert L. Manuel addressed the community following the clearing of the encampment.

“I understand that the last 17 days have been stressful for many, not only within our campus, but also for those who live and work in our neighboring community. We are saddened that the situation came to the point where law enforcement intervention was necessary to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all – both within and outside the encampment,” said President Manuel.

The disassembly process began at 5:30 a.m., led by DePaul Public Safety and Chicago Police. Everyone present in the encampment was given an opportunity to leave peacefully, with a warning that any items left behind would be discarded. By approximately 6 a.m., normal university operations resumed as the encampment had been cleared.

No arrests were made from those in the encampment; however, two individuals were arrested later by Chicago Police for obstructing traffic on Belden Ave - one current student and one former student. No injuries were reported to the university during this operation.

The quad and all green spaces on Lincoln Park Campus will remain closed until further notice.

President Manuel also shared a website detailing allegations against those involved in the encampment including credible threats of violence, battery, harassment, intimidation, antisemitism, and discovery of weapons such as knives and a pellet gun.

Despite negotiations with encampment organizers reaching an impasse, President Manuel expressed disappointment over their inability to agree on terms similar to solutions other universities have successfully implemented.

In his earlier communication at 5:30 a.m., President Manuel wrote: “From the beginning of the encampment, I have said that we would protect free speech and dissent until it either prevented us from carrying out the operations of our university or threatened the safety of the members of our community. I am deeply saddened to say the encampment has crossed that line.”

The university shared a website containing over 1,000 complaints of discrimination, harassment, and violence received during the 17-day period of the encampment's existence. Violations included one death threat and other threats of violence.