Cleveland State temporarily bans Alec Popivker; Persona non grata case pending

On November 9th, Alec Popivker staged an offensive setup on the fountain in Cleveland State’s courtyard. In a video obtained by The Cauldron, Popivker admitted to constructing a stage correlating Palestinian history with Nazism and featured Nazi vandalism, including a swastika. The goal of his arrangement was unclear to many pedestrians walking by. However, it is clear that Popivker’s comfort with the Swastika is exceptionally offensive to the Jewish community on campus. 

A student who would like to remain anonymous reported the incident. They explained, “You can never be too sure about safety.”

A stalking protective order related to a another CSU student temporarily bans Popivker’s presence on campus. The university also has a persona non grata hearing scheduled for Popivker.

The Cauldron contacted CSUs regarding the situation. Cleveland State responded that “The University is evaluating the situation. No decision has been made.” 

We would like to hear more about your opinion on the matter. Please click this link if you would like to voice your stance.

Learn more about Cleveland State’s Free Speech Policy.

Correction – 12/30: In an earlier version of this story, we misidentified a swastika with “Jude” underneath it. It was the Star of David with “Jude” under it. The story was updated with information that Popivker admitted to constructing a stage correlating Palestinian history with Nazism and featured Nazi vandalism, including a swastika.

Update – 12/30: The Cauldron will only add the video to this post when The Cauldron can ensure the safety of the person who recorded the video by changing their voice to protect them.

Update – 1/31: The Cauldron initially reported that Cleveland State initiated the temporary ban over Popivker Nazi vandalism. That was incorrect. Cleveland State has to enforce the temporary ban as it is related to a protective order that a CSU student has against Popivker. The Cauldron was made aware in January that the protective order was related to stalking with a CSU student when it was granted in November 2022. The Cauldron correctly reported this on Jan. 23 in an update.