A meeting ended around 3 o’clock between the occupants and the University, with Principal Louise Richardson and Vice Principal (External Relations) Stephen Magee, and Proctor/Provost of St Leonard’s College/Dean of Graduate Studies, Christopher Smith.
Speaking with the students the Principal stated that she “absolutely believes in your right to exercise civil disobedience and your point of view”, mentioning that she had done similar activities as a student herself.
The Principal reasserted that the University would not take a stance on the conflict in Gaza and commented that other University’s Principals (Professor Sir Timothy O’Shea) were “inappropriate” to do so. The Principal said that she “feels very strongly that the university cannot come out and make a statement about a political situation”.
On the demand concerning Eden Springs the Principal admitted that she is not familiar with the University’s contract with the company.
On the demand that the University organizes a broadcasting of the DEC appeal, it was clarified that the solution could be as little as the University linking (rather than hosting) to the DEC appeal, to which Stephen Magee reasserted the University’s previous response that the link could appear on the STAR FM website.
On the demand of scholarships the Principal refused to change position, though it was suggested that funds could be raised for endowed scholarships. The Principal reminded the group that resources to stage student fundraising events could be arranged.
It was arranged that the next negotiation meeting will occur on Monday but the students made it clear that they were not happy with only one representative attending. The university then conceded and allowed another member.
[...] unable to make a statement on the situation in Gaza on behalf of the university because it would be ‘inappropriate’ to do so apparently she ‘feels very strongly that the university c…. In order to encourage her that this is not the case perhaps other occupations who won this demand [...]
Keep up the pressure on the university management. Your demands are reasonable, necessary and just.
If you have any Arabic speakers, why not translate some of your posts so that the people of Palestine can follow your noble struggle.
Best wishes.
Dr. Edwards raises an important point. I’m impressed that you’ve publicised the actions of other groups engaged in similar struggles, especially the NYC group. But just as I’m keeping touch with you lovely folks to let you know that you have friends far away, you should keep touch with the people of Palestine as best you can (through whatever group you feel it is appropriate to contact) to lend them the moral strength that they need in this trying time.
Do you unreservedly condemn all violent jihad? Yes or no? Please make a public statement on this one.