I don’t have class today but I came to school anyway to do some work because staying home makes getting assignments done really difficult. So while I was in the library I heard drums and chanting but couldn’t make out the words so I honestly thought it was the school’s marching band or something like that, maybe a club.
I didn’t pay it much mind until I came downstairs (the library is two floors). In one of the hallways just outside the library I saw a bunch of posters and stickers strewn about the walls and door way, a keffiyeh was even hanging off one of the doors to the library. A bunch of students were sitting on the floor chanting pro-Palestine slogans like “no justice no peace.” I then saw a bunch of cops walk by them and I guess they were being asked to leave.
Then one of the protesters started to tell everyone to bear witness that our school called the cops on them. It was disappointing to see this although I shouldn’t be surprised, haven’t all universities been calling the cops on their students when they protest for Palestine?
What I was surprised about was that there was a protest at all because I don’t believe our school is one of the ones that gives money to Israel, although I do know one of the schools where I am does. This isn’t me being against the sit in at all! Just illustrating why I was unaware it was happening. My school does have a Palestine club though so I think it was organized by them, I believe they also attend street protests as well.
I have no idea if they got arrested as I had to go home, but I hope they’re alright. Fuck my school for sicking the cops on them, I don’t know why they wouldn’t just send a faculty member or the Dean down to talk about their demands. Maybe I’m naive about all this.
EDIT: I managed to find the Instagram of the club, they made posts about the protest and it turns out that our school’s library system has links to the occupation! Holy shit. School admin still refuses to speak with the students, I remember there was a protest last year so it’s been radio silence for a long time. I will keep an eye on their posts and hopefully something fruitful comes from this.
What can I say? One doesn't rock the boat, when their salary depends on it.
As someone who has been privy to admin negotiations for my university, I have to say they are incredibly obstinate and bad faith to negotiate with. It's like banging your head against the wall until it gives, but until then sustained pressure is required.