INDIANAPOLIS – More than a dozen people were arrested after protesters calling for a ceasefire in Gaza blocked streets near the governor’s residence Thursday morning.

The rally began around 7:30 a.m. near Tarkington Park.  Jewish Voice for Peace—Indiana and Middle Eastern Student Association of IUPUI organized the gathering.

The protesters blocked Meridian Street near the governor’s mansion, 4750 N. Meridian St., holding up signs that read “30,000 killed, not one more,” “Not in my name” and “Stop arming Israel.”

They’re calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and attempting to draw attention to the escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas. They said they’re advocating on behalf of the Palestinian people, hoping to pressure officials to stop the violence and suffering.

Some demonstrators obstructed the road. Police at the scene were observed talking to them.

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department said Meridian Street was closed between 46th and 49th streets because protesters were in the southbound and northbound lanes.

IMPD posted a reminder on social media that “blocking or obstructing traffic is against the law that could result in arrest.”

IMPD later said protesters were given a final warning to move before being subject to arrest. Some were then placed in restraints and escorted away as demonstrators chanted, “You are funding genocide.”

Around 9:30 a.m., it appeared traffic was again flowing in the area, with IMPD indicating Meridian Street had reopened. They said both ways on 46th Street between Illinois and Meridian remained closed.

Protesters remained on the sidewalk, holding signs and continuing their calls for a ceasefire.

IMPD later said 14 people were arrested because they were obstructing traffic. Several of them were not Indianapolis residents, police noted. There were no injuries.

“I want to acknowledge the officers who responded today,” IMPD Chief Chris Bailey posted on social media. “They fulfilled their oath. IMPD respects the right of people to protest. However, when people illegally obstruct traffic, we will take action. We urge people to peacefully and lawfully exercise their rights.”

According to IMPD, the arrested protesters ranged between the ages of 19 and 76. They were from Indianapolis, Columbus, Fishers, Lafayette and Union City.

The Indianapolis Jewish Community Relations Community released the following statement about Thursday’s arrests:

Earlier today in Indianapolis, a group of protesters blocked Meridian Street in protest of the Israeli response to Hamas’s unprovoked atrocities committed on October 7, 2023. Several of these protesters were arrested for unlawfully obstructing traffic.

JCRC is committed to free speech and peaceful protest — rights that make the United States a great country. However, unlawful protests that use blatantly antisemitic language and deliberately espouse misleading messages and/or promulgate false allegations have no place in our community. We thank community partners for their support and law enforcement for performing their duty without incident.

JCRC is working with partners at the Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis (JFGI), Safe Indiana, Secure Community Network (SCN), and the Anti-Defamation League Midwest to keep our Indiana Jewish community safe. Please read about the actions our organizations are taking and the steps you can take to support the community.

JCRC