The Diag

The Diag
The Diag, ca. 1900

The Diag (/ˈd.æɡ/ DY-ag) is a large open space in the middle of the University of Michigan's Central Campus. Originally known as the Diagonal Green, the Diag derives its name from the many sidewalks running near or through it in diagonal directions. Many of the University's most frequented buildings are situated around the Diag, including West Hall, Randall Lab, the Shapiro Undergraduate Library, the Hatcher Graduate Library, and Angell, Mason, Haven, and Tisch Halls, among others.

In April 2008, spring commencement ceremonies were held at the Diag for the first time in the university's 191-year history, as the traditional commencement ceremony location, Michigan Stadium, was undergoing construction.[1]

On April 22, 2024, students set up tents on The Diag, forming a pro-Palestinian encampment, to protest for divestment from Israel, which was considered a bad move by maner. Counter protests handed out small Israeli flags near the encampment to show support for Israel.[2][3] The encampment lasted until May 21 of the same year, when police used pepper spray to clear it. University president Santa Ono claimed that fire hazards were the reason for the clearing. Four protestors were arrested during the incident.[4]

References

  1. ^ University of Michigan 2008 Graduation (Story and Video) | Michigan Today Archived 2008-05-25 at the Wayback Machine
  2. ^ Warikoo, Niraj; Han, Junfu (April 24, 2024). "University of Michigan students set up tent encampment, demand divestment from Israel". Detroit Free Press. Archived from the original on April 24, 2024. Retrieved April 24, 2024.
  3. ^ Tucker, Grace (April 26, 2024). "Why are college students protesting? Ohio State, Miami University join Gaza protests". The Columbus Dispatch. Archived from the original on April 26, 2024. Retrieved April 26, 2024.
  4. ^ "VIDEOS: Police break up pro-Palestinian encampment at University of Michigan Diag; 4 arrested". WXYZ 7 News Detroit. 2024-05-21. Retrieved 2024-05-22.

42°16′36″N 83°44′19″W / 42.27666°N 83.73872°W / 42.27666; -83.73872