Penn Protestor's Claims of Homelessness Contradicted by Family Wealth

Student Protestor from Affluent Background

A student from the University of Pennsylvania, who has been protesting on campus, claimed to have been rendered 'homeless' by the university's actions. However, it has been revealed that she is the offspring of a wealthy, high-profile family. Eliana Atienza, a sophomore at the university, was put on compulsory leave due to her involvement in a campus protest, as reported by the Free Beacon. Following this, she expressed to the Philadelphia Inquirer that she had been victimized and left homeless, with no family in the United States to rely on. She stated in an Instagram post: "I live on campus. The university has barred me from entering. In other words—the university has made me houseless." She further added, "I am also an international student. The University knows this. This is their weapon. So disappointed to be attending an institution that resorts to administrative violence."

Family Background Revealed

However, it has been revealed that Atienza's father is a well-known television presenter in the Philippines, known as "Kuya Kim". The Free Beacon described him as a celebrity who has hosted some of the country's most popular morning and game shows. Additionally, her grandfather, Lito Atienza, is a prominent Filipino politician. He served as the deputy speaker in the country’s House of Representatives until 2022, after which he joined the vice presidential race with boxing legend Manny Pacquiao. Atienza's mother, a Wharton School graduate, is the founder and former head of the Chinese International School Manila, a private K-12 school.

Display of Affluence

Atienza’s father is quite open about his wealth, often posting photos on Instagram of his luxurious first-class flights, complete with caviar service and a shower. He is recognized as one of the Philippines' most familiar TV personalities by British magazine Tatler. He has also televised tours of his home, showcasing his unique collections, which include dinosaur eggs, mid-century modern chairs, and vintage motorcycles, including two BMWs from World War II. Atienza herself has recently posted photos of a trip she took to Antarctica.

Role in Campus Protests

Atienza, who is majoring in environmental studies, became a key figure in the "Gaza Solidarity Encampment" that disrupted campus life for over two weeks. She was among the students who negotiated with interim president Larry Jameson to dismantle the encampment, as reported by the Inquirer. However, Atienza rejected Jameson's tentative offers, criticizing them as mere promises to "look into the feasibility" of divesting from Israel by entangling student protesters in "endless meetings and task forces and discussions and committees."

Thoughts on the Matter

This story raises questions about the authenticity of Atienza's claims and the impact of her affluent background on her protest actions. What are your thoughts on this matter? Do you think her family's wealth undermines her claims of being victimized by the university? Share your opinions with your friends and let's start a conversation. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.