Protest At Towson University Sparks Counterdemonstration

TOWSON, MD — A protest and counterprotest Thursday afternoon at Towson University reportedly prompted police presence at the campus. The demonstration originated with an "external group" that "had plans to 'exercise free speech'" on campus, university officials said.

The Towson University Police Department worked to contain the group and was communicating with the Baltimore County Police Department, university officials said on Thursday, April 18.

Homosexuals, Muslims and other groups were targeted by the protesters, according to The Baltimore Sun.

One sign read: "Stop sinning. Obey Jesus or hellfire."

Others said things like "Women belong in the kitchen" and "Homos are rapists," according to ABC 2 News.

In response, students at the university banded together with messages and music promoting inclusion.

I’m on scene at Towson university where these protesters have drawn hundreds of counter protesters dancing, playing music, waving LGBT signs. pic.twitter.com/rRe0RVWgys
— Libby Solomon (@libsolomon) April 18, 2019

One person was reportedly arrested.

Charges are pending against the individual, who has no affiliation with Towson University, a spokesman for Towson told WBAL.

Apparent arrest during Towson University protests today: https://t.co/zKMkXajl0i pic.twitter.com/ensECjFtti
— FOX Baltimore (@FOXBaltimore) April 18, 2019

"TU remains committed to upholding our values toward a diverse and inclusive campus. Although many members of our community have found the messages and beliefs of these individuals to be offensive and disturbing, the strength of our community and our resolve to support each other remains resolute," Towson University officials said in a statement. "We ask all members of our campus community to be safe and continue to support each other."

University police asked those on campus to avoid Cross Campus Drive Thursday afternoon.

.@TowsonU and @BaltCoPolice
are monitoring an anti-LGBTQ+ protest on campus https://t.co/MTZoj8mnBm
— WJZ | CBS Baltimore (@wjz) April 18, 2019

Students respond with #NotatTU banners and signs #CFA pic.twitter.com/YaPTBOYWg4
— Tim Klapac (@pacofkla) April 18, 2019

DEVELOPING: Towson students gather outside of the Center for the Arts in response to anti-LGBTQ rhetoric. Story to follow pic.twitter.com/T3BZdKhgg9
— The Towerlight (@TheTowerlight) April 18, 2019

Towson band students join in as the crowd chants “Not at TU!” pic.twitter.com/Q1uEx7IXzb
— Tim Klapac (@pacofkla) April 18, 2019