A student-led pro-Palestinian encampment, called the Mohkinstsis Liberated Zone, was established at the University of Calgary in response to the conflict between Israel and Hamas. The Calgary Student Movement is leading the protest and demands that the university divest from all corporations involved with the conflict and condemn Israel’s actions towards Palestinians. This encampment is part of a larger movement across Canada and the U.S., with students at various universities calling on their schools to disclose ties with the Israeli government and divest from Israeli universities. The group is determined to stay until their demands are met, showing solidarity with the people of Palestine and condemning the violence in Gaza.
Ryn LaRoux, a spokesperson for the Calgary Student Movement, emphasized the importance of the university being a place of learning and community free from investment in genocidal violence. They point out the lack of functioning universities in Gaza and the tragic deaths of students, highlighting the urgency of the situation. Justice for Palestinians Calgary expressed solidarity with the student encampment at the University of Calgary and other universities in Canada, condemning acts of racism and violence. They stand against any labeling of participants as antisemitic for fighting for the liberation of Palestine, advocating for the preservation of human rights and peace.
The student-led encampments across Canada and the U.S. continue a legacy of resistance against imperialism and injustice. These protests are reminiscent of past movements that have fought against oppressive systems. Justice for Palestinians Calgary calls for an end to all forms of racism and violence against students and faculty members, emphasizing the importance of fighting for the liberation of Palestine. The group urges universities to take a stand against violence and support peace efforts in the region, encouraging solidarity and activism in the face of conflict.
The Calgary Student Movement and other groups are calling on the University of Calgary and other institutions to divest from corporations involved in the conflict and speak out against Israel’s treatment of Palestinians. This demand for divestment reflects a growing movement among students to hold universities accountable for their investments and affiliations. By setting up encampments and protests, students are using their voices and actions to advocate for change and support the people of Palestine. The ongoing demonstrations aim to raise awareness and put pressure on universities to take a stand for justice and human rights.
Global News has reached out to the University of Calgary for comment, indicating that this issue is receiving attention and may lead to further discussions and actions. The student-led encampment at the University of Calgary is part of a broader movement that is gaining momentum and drawing attention to the conflict in the Middle East. By standing in solidarity with the people of Palestine and calling for divestment from corporations involved in the conflict, students are taking a proactive approach to addressing the issue and advocating for peace. The collective efforts of these groups reflect a growing desire for change and justice in the face of ongoing violence and injustice.
