Protests, college walkouts expected in New York City on Oct. 7 anniversary
NEW YORK (WABC) -- A vigil to remember those killed and missing in last year's Hamas attack on Oct. 7 will come within blocks of a pro-Palestinian march Monday night.
NYPD officials are planning to keep both groups separate in what is expected to be the culmination of a tense day of protests and prayers.
Smashed windows, red paint and graffiti including "divest now" was discovered spray-painted on the CUNY Advanced Science Research Center on the City College of New York campus in Hamilton Heights on Monday morning.
At Columbia University, access is limited to ID holders in an effort to keep out outside agitators.
More walkouts are expected in the afternoon, with both students and faculty from CUNY and city public schools gathering at Washington Square Park, to join the larger protest marching north.
In the largest planned pro-Palestinian action of the day, protesters are expected to march through Manhattan, from Wall Street to Columbus Circle.
Blocks away in Central Park, a candle lighting ceremony with members of the Jewish community will remember those killed, with music and prayer. Politicians, hostage families and others are expected to attend.
Police officials say they are most concerned about the protest in Times Square, and the pro-Israeli prayer vigil in Central Park.
Mayor Eric Adams thanked officers on Monday morning ahead of what is expected to be a busy day throughout the city.
"The people have a right to protest but not a right to destroy our city and that is why we have an all hands on deck," Adams said. "I will be out here this morning, this evening to also be a part of making sure this city continues to move forward in the right direction."
ALSO READ: Israel marks 1 year since the October 7th Hamas attack
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