COLUMBUS, Ohio — A peaceful protest on the Ohio State University campus Thursday night descended into chaos while protesters were praying, according to state Rep. Munira Abdullahi.

“It escalated completely for no reason other than for the students to peacefully exercise their First Amendment right and the rest to pray,” he said.

Abdullahi can be seen in a video, taken by her sister Rahma, being pushed by police as they approach protesters.

“We were supporting the students, many of us were protecting our classmates who were praying and the police kept pushing, advancing and pulling, taking out tissues, I saw them grab a girl by the hair, they threw minors and students to the ground, we suffered some injuries . I have some bruised ribs right now,” she said.

Both campus police and state police responded to the protest Thursday night and ultimately arrested 36 people, including 16 students, according to a university spokesperson.

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“It’s freedom of speech, I don’t know why it was such a big deal,” Rahma said.

A spokesperson said the state of Ohio does not allow camping or overnight events.

The protest has created tension on campus among some students.

“I think a lot of Jewish students, myself included, are a little intimidated, afraid and a little tired,” said Jeremy Davis, president of Ohio State University Hillel. “I think a lot of Jewish students just want to finish their final exams and go relax.”

It’s unclear if there are plans for more protests, but if they continue, Rep. Abdullahi and her sister say they plan to be there to ensure students’ First Amendment rights are protected.

“Universities have historically been a place where students have learned about justice and have learned how to maneuver in the world and advocate for justice,” he said.

Abdullahi issued a statement about the situation, saying in part: “What I witnessed and how I and other protesters were treated was horrific and continues to be painful both physically and mentally. What was a calm and respectful protest was quickly escalated by police officers. They surrounded us with riot gear at a time when we were supporting the students who were praying. They grabbed me by my scarf and pushed me to the ground on top of the students. In the end, I suffered painful bruises around my ribs and abdomen.

I think there was absolutely no reason for the police to respond the way they did. We pose no threat to them or anyone else. “We were simply making our voices heard peacefully for the millions of Palestinians who have no voice of their own right now.”