Gallaudet U. protest escalates

WASHINGTON – Gallaudet University students blocked access to campus for a second day Thursday, escalating their protest against an incoming president they say lacks the skills to lead the nation’s only liberal arts university for the deaf and hearing impaired.

“We’re in the middle of a crisis here,” said LaToya Plummer, 25, a junior from Suitland, Md., who was among the protesters.

Students eased their blockade of campus entrances Thursday night after meeting with District of Columbia police and university officials for three hours. Protest leaders agreed to open one side entrance to avoid being arrested.

The blockade began around 3 a.m. Wednesday and forced the university to cancel classes for a second day Thursday.