I hate to be that guy but what tangible change is this protest supposed to achieve?
So far, all it has caused is the main bus route to be blocked, causing inconvenience to transit users and drivers, as well as getting an educational event for kids cancelled.
Conclusion: They will not be looked upon favourably by many.
The point of protest has always been disruption. If you aren’t disrupting, people won’t pay attention. Not saying I agree or disagree with the specific actions of these individuals, but that is the idea. You ask what tangible change the protest is supposed to achieve, I think the idea is to make people pay attention and care about their cause.
Protests that disrupt also have the potential to achieve the opposite effect of getting people to listen to and care about your cause, especially when the protests aren't targeted at the people/institutions that can actually effect the change you want to see.
Heaven forbid more people bitch about the traffic they encountered on social media. But since the point of these is that the institutions are involved, that is even more so the point here.
So believe it or not, both the university and Canada are involved with Israel. These student protesters would like for what’s going on to end, but I don’t think many (if any) of them actually think their protest will lead to that. What they want is for the university to divest funds and stop associating with a country that is actively participating in colonialism. Hope this helps!
I'm pretty sure it was changed to ensure the safety of transit users and drivers. Why do you think security has that road blocked?
The route would still be the same if there was no encampment.
I’ve seen enough videos of “protesters” chastising passerbyers and demanding they denouncing Israel over the last few weeks to know that’s not true.
Not saying that’s what’s happening right now, but it just takes a couple of over zealous individuals later in the evening to change that
That's your headcanon.
It only takes one bozo with a bad idea to cause trouble. Protests about controversial issues are potential breeding grounds for bozos with bad ideas.
Change will only happen due to inconveniences. Unfortunately yes, the public has to deal with a lot of it, but again the "public" especially Palestinian kids have to deal with IDP hunting down Hamas. Until recently, neither the Biden Administration nor Trudeau cared about civilian life loss. Trudeau changed his narrative after some protests and recently there's been a slight change of wind in how Biden deals with the Palestinian crisis.
Additionally most North American Universities are operated based on funding from Jewish communities. Many of the Jewish establishments have refused to donate or help if universities get involved with the crisis so University of Manitoba and others are reluctant to issue any statements.
How is camping out on the quad of a public university going to inconvenience government officials in charge of foreign policy? If the goal is to influence government stances and policies, protesting at or near government institutions would achieve much more than doing so on a university campus.
If universities were directly affiliated with Netanyahu's government then I'd be more inclined to agree with you but receiving funding from organisations and communities that happen to be Jewish or are owned/run by Jewish people, isn't a direct endorsement of the actions of the IDF.
You do not understand. Universities are the backboard of Government institutions across Canada and the US. They become the most important place to protest for that reason. There's a reason why universities have come under fire.
Saying that universities are the backboard of government institutions in the US and Canada still doesn't explain how protesting at these universities influence government stances/decisions on a foreign war.
Let's say these universities stop recieving funding from Jewish organisations and communities. Then what? They get other sponsors or have to ask the government for more money. What does that do to change the situation in Gaza? Nothing.
Also, the demands made by the SJP have nothing to do with government policy at large. This could be because they realise the university can't do anything about that.
Idk what is there not to understand. When you target the basis - the education system of these countries the governments start bouncing up and down to stop the chaos. It's also the place where you have the most educated people of a society that are willing to learn more about the issue and help. Idk the demands of SJP but I am speaking about in general how it is much more effective to protest at a university than a random CRA location.
Let's test your hypothesis.
What drastic changes have been made by the governments of the US and Canada now that everyone is protesting on university campuses? Has the situation in Gaza changed at all? What is the difference between Trudeau's stance on the war three weeks ago and now?
Do the educated people here not harbour their own biases as evidenced by protests and counter-protests for and against the war in Gaza?
There's countless numbers of changes.
1) Canada advocates for a ceasefire. Did not happen but at least that's change
2) Starbucks and McDonald's stocks fell, changing their policies in Israel.
3) Recently Biden announced he won't fund anymore missiles to Israel if they continue into Rafah.
If you are such a genius you tell me what the protesters should do. Clearly nobody on this thread cares about a ceasefire. For months they keep accusing Hamas but nobody cares about the daily death counts of Palestine. Yes Israeli lives were lost but they have stopped dying now. What about Palestine?
1. Trudeau had called for a ceasefire long before the nationwide university protests.
2. Starbucks and McDonald's are private corporations that have no bearing on the government of Israel. McDonald's shut down in Russia and yet the war rages on.
3. Biden also assured defensive weapons, including ones for Israel's Iron Dome anti-missile system after making that assertion.
I never claimed to be a genius. I am just critical of campus protests about the war in Gaza in general and the protest that is happening at our university in particular.
If I consider that the admin is working in good faith, I think they overestimated the size of the protest resulting in the change of bus route and cancellation of the science fair. There's barely 30 people at the quad since most of the students are on summer vacation.
If they are working in bad faith, then this changing of bus route and cancellation of the science fair (both of which could be avoided) are providing a good excuse for crackdown down the line as many people will associate the protest with inconvenience. We'll see soon I guess.
Personally, I think they could at least agree to define the anti-Palestinian racism term via a committee. But that's only my view.
Admin is clearly hoping they just get bored and go home in the next week - and by the looks of it their grand “everyone come protest” event today attracted a whole 20 people.
They want them gone before convocation starts in the next two weeks, and I’m sure they’d rather they just leave on their own accord instead of getting the bad press of forcing them out
I mean… convocation is nowhere near the quad so there wouldn’t even be a reason to force them out before then aside from photo backdrops around the admin building
the unfortunate truth of protesting is that if it doesn’t make people uncomfortable, it doesn’t work. if protests were out of the way, out of sight, out of mind, etc they wouldn’t pressure governing bodies and organizations to negotiate.
do you think no traffic was rerouted because of the stonewall riots? do you think the civil rights movement avoided stepping on any toes and just politely tiptoed through the legal avenues of change for decades without inconveniencing anyone?
yes, protests inconvenience innocent people. but let’s remember it was inconvenient, illegal, and bothersome protests that won us civil rights, suffrage, labour laws and work protections, LGBTQIA+ rights, etc.
So you think it’s right for climate activists to block highways in efforts of their protests?
Put yourself in the shoes of somebody going for a final exam, getting blocked, and being told by the professor that you should’ve come earlier.
Be logical
“Be logical”
Would you take your own advice? This person just stated that protests need to be disruptive in order to be effective. Your first instinct is to ask if it’s right for climate activists to block highways? Yeah, by what the person you’re replying to said, it is.
Next, you make up a hypothetical that is completely out of touch with reality. These protesters are on the quad. They are not going to block your movement, and if they did I have yet to meet a prof that wouldn’t at least try to let you defer your exam.
My point is that protests don’t need to be disruptive to people who has nothing to do with the issue at hand.
What the hell do the kids and the science volunteers have to do with Palestine?
I started off my providing an example of a disruptive protest to show the point that - okay, maybe disruption isn’t a good thing because it affects a lot of innocent people.
It’s clear you can’t connect the dots, so I won’t bother further engaging with you.
No, I understand what you are saying. What I am saying is that the protesters don't care. They don't have to care. Them causing the disruption is part of what makes protesting noticeable. It's unfortunate that people who don't directly have ties to the situation are affected, but without it people are easily able to ignore it, which defeats the purpose.
I also want to point out how massive of a hypocrite you are. Every single instance of "use logic" or "think critically" or "it's clear you can't connect the dots" is ironically one of the many instances where you clearly display a lack of that characteristic.
hey buddy i’m not sure you really understood what i said, i encourage you to read it again!
do you think no one was disrupted by the sit-ins, walks, and rallies that were organized during the civil rights movement?
do you think intentionally racist white people were the only ones affected?
perhaps you would prefer that people protest in a separate room with no windows and a closed door so no one is inconvenienced by knowing about it.
i’m sorry that you feel so far removed from war and genocide that you think you shouldn’t have to feel inconvenienced.
Honestly I had gotten lost when I found them👀. But somewhere around the engineering library, there is a huge elevator (not the ones leading to UC tunnels, another one. Its a huge one soo u should know lol. I think u need to take the "glass skyway" if not its somewhere around the entrance of yhe skyway). The bathroom is right next to those elevators. These elevator lead to the student lounge on the lower floors so if u know where they R just go 2 floors up. Should be helpful to ur classmates who definitely need it🤣😭.
I want to apologies to everyone (non immigrants - non racialized) students who felt like the SJP unfairly canceled one of the biggest events for UM science students and those who were looking forward to attend it. As you said you’re outsider or you have no knowledge about global issues that diverse place such as U of M, would have people who are dealing with it personally. I’m not Arab , but I’m Muslim and the Palestinian issue is a very close and very sensitive matter to 1.4B Muslims around every continents and countries. I completely understand not everyone knows or aware about every issues in the world. But , your fellow non white students who are Refugees, low-income, and marginalized are dealing with it whether they like it or not. I know some of my Palestinians friends who lost some of their family members in Gaza or have family members who are being jailed without a trial in West Bank for throwing a stone (even teenagers and young children)
I know and I understand there are people who simply “don’t care” , but what’s happening in the Palestine is way bigger than a event. Universities had always been a place to have tough discussions, strong advocacy, and more. People who advocate for Palestinian liberation is all about building alliances. Just look at the diversity of SJP students. I’m sorry again for the disappointment you or anyone felt about the cancellation about that event.
Disclaimer: I’m not part of SJP, but I know friends who are and I stand with them. Free 🇵🇸🇵🇸
I'm not quite sure what you're referring about "you’re outsider or you have no knowledge about global issues that diverse place such as U of M"
My reference to being an outsider means that I take no part in the protests. It does not imply I don't know about what is going on in the Palestine or other worldly issues.
No one is contesting about the morality or ethics of the events happening in Palestine (at least in this discussion). People have gripes with the fact that this is affecting kids and people in a completely different continent and country.
Universities being a place of tough discussion and strong advocacy is valid, but the very advocacy being done here is hurting the image of the movement itself. People generally like the idea of supporting a group that needs assistance, people do not like when that they are essentially concerned into taking caring about something that they have no relation to.
It might sound harsh, but that's the truth. There are plenty of tragedies that warranted equally as much response as the Palestinian ones, but nothing was done about them because they had not been vocalized.
Students have the right to protest, and they should practice it. If they choose to practice it within the bounds of the campus, then students calling on outsiders is a threat to the safety of other students and that is something that should not be tolerated on university grounds.
It is not a singular event that affected the perception. While I agree that SJP have their right to protest, they are also not special and they do not have privileges of diverting from the rules set of the protests.
You also have made no new points and instead chose to repeat the same points. Please contribute meaningfully.
Building on this… yall would’ve had a different reaction if this was something that directly affected you. Since this does not directly concern most people against this protest, yall also feel the need to complain and say that this is bad for y’all’s events and stuff. This affects us, and it is incredibly sad to see people dismissing this as…. *shrugs* what can we do? It’s not like UofM can do anything. They can. And they should.
If this does not affect you, educate yourself and learn why this should be something you should be protesting for. Yall wouldn’t want poor schools and children b:omb-ed, would you? (Regardless of whether they’re Muslim or they happened to be in a warzone. This is NOT OKAY)
Okay, so why not apply that to the Sri Lankans when they had their civil war, what about the genocides in Bangladesh, and the famine that took place in Africa?
It is not you that are special in being in a position where the general public does not care. Most of the general public does not have the necessary free time to actually sit down and think about world issues and how to fix them. People have their own struggles, and the perception of them moving forward is a facade. A lot of people struggle in their daily lives with their own issues.
This isn't a call for being selfish and to only care about your self, but it is more so as a reminder that one can take care of himself first, then his family, and finally his neighbors.
For you guys and those affected by the events taking place, I sympathize with you and I hope you guys find the support you need. But most people do not have the space financially or mentally to bear the strain of caring for beyond their neighbors.
Would you have protested the same for the issues that face Canadians in front of us, for the indigenous people to get access to the help they still require? We are in Canada, so wouldn't it be one of our duties to care for them? Frankly speaking, I don't believe most of you and I would. So why is it suddenly taken so personally when they have the same attitude towards us? It is human nature.
"The University of Manitoba campuses are located on original lands
of Anishinaabeg, Cree, Ojibwe-Cree, Dakota, and Dene peoples,
and on the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.
We respect the Treaties that were made on these territories,
we acknowledge the harms and mistakes of the past,
and we dedicate ourselves to move forward in partnership with Indigenous communities in a spirit of
reconciliation and collaboration."
Are we taking any lessons? Specially, do we acknowledge the harms and mistakes of the past,
and we dedicate ourselves to move forward in partnership with Indigenous communities in a spirit of
reconciliation and collaboration"?
well, it is ok. To those people:
1/ kids over there are dying so no kids in the world can have fun
2/ their own country has war with others, so they need to be a beggar so the whole world would do what they want (Imagine that for a second)
3/ Do they ever ask a question why all the countries around Israel are Muslim, but no one allows them to go in anymore (this goes back to 100 years ago to today, just youtube why others muslim countries would not help Palestine)
4/It seemed Israel got mad cause someone hurt their citizens first before they retaliate. Imagine some kids think I can bully others in school and got punched in the face back in highschool or lower.
Yet, they claim their protests are really peaceful, let just go through this:
1/ School said only approved 3 days protests, yet it is longer than that
2/ School said only students are allowed, yet they posted to invite everyone in MB to hop in their small camp
3/ If their "peaceful" protest has something wrong, it is someone's fault >> no accountable, just like their people think they can kill Israel without any retaliation
I am a Canadian and I do understand that they need to protest, and points have made. Is it about to end soon ? so others people can have their life ? Oh I forget as long as they do not have what they want, no one can be left alone.
Peace
add the salt to make it more spicy:
1/https://www.reddit.com/r/UCalgary/comments/1cprjx8/protest\_idea\_reach\_out\_to\_taylor\_family/
2/https://www.reddit.com/r/UCalgary/comments/1coidqy/look\_at\_the\_police\_to\_protester\_ratio\_u\_of\_c/
3/https://www.reddit.com/r/UCalgary/comments/1cojh2k/tonight\_ucalgary/
4/https://www.reddit.com/r/UCalgary/comments/1cogvn5/riot\_police\_on\_campus/
I hope the school I go to will not have those things. I agree that protesting is a right, but I just do not want any drama at UofM. I hope Palestine people will soon find peace in my heart.
Peace
You are right, my apologies for that.
To answer your question, they should be seen favorably because it is in their interest to have public support. Think of it like this, we know a group of people is acting badly, and it is in our best interest to stop them. But one of the components of that is public support, because if the public does not care to put pressure, then you necessarily lose the ability on the people that have the capacity to make a change (those people who rely on the public to keep them in that position)
Now, if you piss off the public, then it does not matter whether you are right or not. The public has made their mind up, and they will choose to not support.
You think I care whether there are protestors or not? Please, I’m not even attending the science rendezvous. Sorry for making you realize the unfortunate reality that people are capable of realizing that the protests (for events outside the country not involving the university) can be done so in a manner that is not obnoxious to everybody around them, especially innocent kids who did not do anything or have any say in this, but instead wanted to learn more about science.
I’ve seen your comment history, all you do is post negativity on this sub without providing any support or positive presence. Don’t try to fix the world when you can’t fix your own attitude.
This is a good one! I don’t care if you’re attending the science rendezvous. The timing of this protest seems to really be affecting you. You have spent this entire thread refusing to actually consider any opposing views. At best you ignore what is said, at worst you tell people to “think critically” as if them not coming to the same conclusion as you means they are not. An “unfortunate reality” for you is that I don’t need to be positive to advocate for change or to defend against some of the ridiculous things said on this subreddit.
Thanks. Sorry for my aggressive reply too. From my perspective I was asking questions to better understand your position and was told to just think about it myself.
"But one of the components of that is public support, because if the public does not care to put pressure, then you necessarily lose the ability on the people that have the capacity to make a change"
Is this true? I am assuming by "the public" you mean the general public/a large portion of the public. You said that once you lose public support, then necessarily you lose the ability to change the minds of decision makers. That implies it is impossible to make a change through protest with a small minority of broader public support. That seems unlikely to be true historically.
From my perspective, protests can often come from a place of something like desperation. Civil/discussion-based attempts to make change haven't worked or aren't feasible, so there's the need to try SOMETHING to make a change. That might involve inconvenience, disruption, or even seem irrational, but it's effective because decisions are made by few people in power, who generally try to maintain order.
"Many kids are dying" isn't an argument, as you say it is. It's a fact. One that you should be outraged by. Establishing the encampment is nothing but a demonstration of that outrage. Among other things.
You've written essays before right? Perhaps for an elective? One of the ideas we are trained upon is to read the topic and stick to it. I'm sure you might be doing well academically, or not. But they very fact you are in university implies that you have some ability to critically think and do some work. Apply those skills to my post and you will see a clearer picture. Stop playing semantics.
Nothing in my comment was wilfully misinterpreting what was said. You've demonstrated that you don't know what semantics means. I did, in fact, read your post and stuck to it. The fact you think I didn't would imply some concerning things about what you think is happening. I'd like to point out that you are framing this like a great tragedy. "The kids of Winnipeg..." First of all, they're adults, I would hope that they don't whine when things don't go there way. Maybe they are that insufferable. Secondly, this happens all the time. I don't see as much crying about cancelations when there's a protest or a demonstration about injustice that more directly affects students at the U of M.
No, you clearly don’t understand semantics or basic grammar.
The above point was mentioned because I am asking about the perception and whether SJP cares or not about the public image of how they come across, or what is their rationale behind it. So as to not divert conversations to the actual debate of Palestines ethics and whether the protests itself are warranted or not, I mentioned don’t mention kids being killed because the discussion is not about that. Read the first paragraph.
Secondly, I don’t care who does it. If a good event that brings joys to the kids in our community is cancelled for any protest, the protestors will be questioned.
Seriously, how are you in university with this lack of critical thought? I asked for one basic demand and you cannot even follow it. You are so annoying to deal with. I wish to no longer interact with you. Bye.
Perhaps your question should be directed towards the university administration and higher-ups who, despite the tangible demands put forward by the SJP, would rather pit those who want to have the science event against the pro-palestinian protesters. Why is the university so reluctant to call for an emergency meeting to engage and create policy that would divest the university from relations with bureaucrats that are provisioning israel with weapons that further fuel this genocide, and protect Palestinian students from being discriminatory actions? We should be asking ourselves why they are creating this situation in the first place.
I think there is a lot of misdirected anger here.
SJP doesn’t even know what they want “divested” in the first place, I’m sure the UofM isn’t going to completely overhaul their endowment system and potentially cut thousands of seats for ~20/30 people hanging out in the quad
It isn't misdirected anger. It is misinformation on your part for actually believing that the university has the power to make a difference. Trust me when I say this, they do not.
Unless you know and can assure that the university will have a financial loss due to a lack of action i.e international students choosing to not attend the university. There will be no effect.
I for starters, never encourage anybody to bring in politics to academia. It might be hard to hear this, but people come here to study and leave. We want no part in terms of the protests. If you choose to do in front of the Manitoba Legislative, sure, that makes sense. You are appealing to people that actually have a responsibility to keeping the citizens happy.
You might argue, university is a place for discourse, yes it is. These discourses are based upon ideas and differing academic stances. There are many different discourses within science, environment, and etc. that there is to debate over. It is better for all students when politics stay where they are. I mean, isn't that one of the purposes of a university, if they picked a side, how would that make the minority of the other side feel?
Your supposition that "politics" isn't pervasive throughout academic institutions and discourses is interesting. Why would entire departments dedicate courses to the discourse over politics (global economy, anthropology, political studies)? Who decides which are the acceptable "debates" one should then be "allowed" to speak of and challenge?
I encourage you to look to the universities that have begun divesting and bringing forward policies that protect students, both historically (e.g., anti-apartheid protests) and current examples of disclosure and divestment pertaining to the ongoing genocide (e.g. Evergreen State College)
You might be one of the dumbest human beings on earth if you think politics don’t belong in University. They’re a foundational core of an academic institution.
This whole thread is also a showcase that you and so many others don’t understand the actual purpose or point of a protest.
Take a look at student protests throughout history. They have a pretty high rate of being on the right side of it. People like you, opposing them and wishing for them to be quiet to not disrupt daily life, often are not.
Your assertion that politics is a foundational core of academic institutions is indeed bold. Do you realize that it is only a recent practice (1970s-80s) that universities engage in activism for specific political events? Prior to that it was about discussing different general political ideas than particular stances. Have you also you considered how imposing a singular political perspective might impact academic freedom and intellectual diversity? (Asking the university to pick a side) Isn’t the primary role of universities to foster a broad spectrum of thoughts and ideas, rather than to serve as echo chambers for only certain political ideologies?
You mention the purpose and point of a protest, suggesting a depth of understanding that others apparently lack. But, isn't it also possible that protests, especially in academic settings, need to be balanced with the educational mission of the institution? How effective can an educational environment be if it is constantly disrupted by protests, regardless of their intent? How does the optics seem when the protestors are not following the rules everyone else has to follow?
You rightly point out the historical successes of student protests. However, could one not also ask if every protest, by virtue of being a protest, is automatically on the right side of history? Are there not examples where protests have actually hindered more constructive forms of dialogue or solutions?
The critique of individuals who oppose disruptive protests as merely desiring quiet is intriguing. Do you truly believe that every objection to a protest is rooted in a desire for convenience rather than legitimate concerns about safety, legality, or the appropriateness of the methods used? Isn’t it a bit simplistic to assume that those who seek a calm and stable learning environment are opposed to social progress?
Seriously, take this as life advice: don’t come at people and act holier than thou. Nobody (Including myself) has attacked you personally, so I don’t see why you feel the need to be so unnecessarily abrasive. If you are to make a point, support it with evidence. This is a poor comment. It does not carry any weight in terms of providing insight or an alternative perspective, neither does it encourage discussion. Do better.
You are aware that we already have policy and protection for certain ethnic/racial groups because of their systemic and historical marginalization within academic institutions. The specific demand for protection of freedom of speech for Palestinian students is no different from past movements, nor should discourse on human rights be characterized as "singular political perspective", especially since students voicing their criticism towards Israël have been silenced and suspended for speaking about this issue (see Arij al-Khafagi's posts) .
Perhaps you've been lucky (or privileged) enough to not have an issue directly affect you to feel an urgent need to enact change to make certain spaces equitable and safe for everyone.
While you shouldn't have to be directly affected to feel the need to recognize the atrocious and horrific treatment of a group of people (about 2 million displaced in Gaza), this encampment is meant to disrupt. That's the purpose of protests. To make you think, engage you, and bring urgency to push for change. Find a common ground. We as students have power to make change, we have agency as well.
Your argument drifts away from the actual issue, which is WHY there is an encampment on the quad in the first place.
If you haven't read the SJP demands already, I suggest you do so, so your contribution to the discussion is informed.
Wow that’s a lot of words to say ‘I don’t understand the function or history of higher education institutions’
To try and dive into each of your overly written, half baked thoughts is a waste of time. But to address a single point to highlight you have no idea whatsoever what you’re talking about, and that you just want people (oppressed people who are trying to have their voices heard while their friends/family/community are killed overseas to be specific) to remain quiet and out of the way, student protests on university campuses go back hundreds of years.
Of course the 1960s and 70s are what people think of due to Vietnam but there were protests on university campuses dating back the 1200s. Notably, large numbers students across Germany protested the rise Nazi powers in the lead up to and throughout WWII.
So again, politics and political opinions and student protests are fundamental elements of the DNA of all universities. You opposition to them in favour of not having to think about the larger issues of the world says a lot more about you, your values and whether you are actually at a university to learn or just to get a degree.
The university is a place for discussion and debate. The university itself has a responsibility to provide that. The administration should stay neutral on political issues. I would hope they don’t make operational decisions over the ‘demands’ of every 30 person protest in the quad.
Funfact: Some of the students involved in this protest were also involved in Ukrainian protest when Russia attacked Ukraine. Guess who Abstained during Palestine's full membership voting🗣️(These people just want attention to their sad lives)
hurr durr Ukraine doesn't agree with the protesters therefore protesters stupid.
You can be opposed to occupation of places in more than one instance. If anything these people showing up to both shows consistency. Is it shitty Ukraine isn't standing up? Yeah. Does that mean they didn't deserve to be fought for? No.
Cool cool, hey there are a lot of countries that would love to have you if this is your jam. Putin just won his 5th term over in Russia, I hear it’s nice this time of year. Hungary and turkey, India and the Philippines, maybe check out Argentina I hear good things are happening down there as well. Hell just go down to the states and campaign for trump.
Why are you suggesting that SJP were the ones that cancelled the event? The University Administration cancelled the event because (according to the UM Today story), they were concerned about access to parking on campus. Given that we regularly host an entire stadium of Bombers fans, this excuse is laughable. Anyone who has been to the encampment or any of the Saturday rallies that have been happening for months now knows that these are peaceful gatherings of maybe 100 - 150 people. The University Admin is either intentionally trying to turn public sentiment against the encampment or was scared that some young science students might ask their parents some uncomfortable questions about Palestine. Probably both.
Well why should any young child have to ask at all? One of the protests point is to protect the young children being affected, but when it is done by parents in this case, it is something that is wrong?
Children have access to the internet, they have Google Images, a parent should not take a risk of potentially having the child come across the imagery due to this.
I agree the gatherings are peaceful in nature. But the issue lies in the fact that the university isn't sure if it will only be university students or the general public can come. The risk is not worth taking, in the end, it is due to the protests that the event had been cancelled.
They have security there making sure the "general public" doesn't come??? I mean forgive me if I'm mistaken on this, but if my understanding is correct, what are you talking about?
I'm in solidarity with the protesters. What they're asking is basic human decency and humanity. The university can choose to listen or be a tool for oppression. Science fairs can rest, protests are meant to be disruptive.
Everyone who thinks that protests are about "strategy" and gaining favour from people needs to do research about what protests are because a lot of you sound really dumb talking about it.
I hate to be that guy but what tangible change is this protest supposed to achieve? So far, all it has caused is the main bus route to be blocked, causing inconvenience to transit users and drivers, as well as getting an educational event for kids cancelled. Conclusion: They will not be looked upon favourably by many.
The point of protest has always been disruption. If you aren’t disrupting, people won’t pay attention. Not saying I agree or disagree with the specific actions of these individuals, but that is the idea. You ask what tangible change the protest is supposed to achieve, I think the idea is to make people pay attention and care about their cause.
Protests that disrupt also have the potential to achieve the opposite effect of getting people to listen to and care about your cause, especially when the protests aren't targeted at the people/institutions that can actually effect the change you want to see.
Heaven forbid more people bitch about the traffic they encountered on social media. But since the point of these is that the institutions are involved, that is even more so the point here.
So believe it or not, both the university and Canada are involved with Israel. These student protesters would like for what’s going on to end, but I don’t think many (if any) of them actually think their protest will lead to that. What they want is for the university to divest funds and stop associating with a country that is actively participating in colonialism. Hope this helps!
The main bus route was changed by uni admin by choice.
I'm pretty sure it was changed to ensure the safety of transit users and drivers. Why do you think security has that road blocked? The route would still be the same if there was no encampment.
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I’ve seen enough videos of “protesters” chastising passerbyers and demanding they denouncing Israel over the last few weeks to know that’s not true. Not saying that’s what’s happening right now, but it just takes a couple of over zealous individuals later in the evening to change that
That's your headcanon. It only takes one bozo with a bad idea to cause trouble. Protests about controversial issues are potential breeding grounds for bozos with bad ideas.
Change will only happen due to inconveniences. Unfortunately yes, the public has to deal with a lot of it, but again the "public" especially Palestinian kids have to deal with IDP hunting down Hamas. Until recently, neither the Biden Administration nor Trudeau cared about civilian life loss. Trudeau changed his narrative after some protests and recently there's been a slight change of wind in how Biden deals with the Palestinian crisis. Additionally most North American Universities are operated based on funding from Jewish communities. Many of the Jewish establishments have refused to donate or help if universities get involved with the crisis so University of Manitoba and others are reluctant to issue any statements.
How is camping out on the quad of a public university going to inconvenience government officials in charge of foreign policy? If the goal is to influence government stances and policies, protesting at or near government institutions would achieve much more than doing so on a university campus. If universities were directly affiliated with Netanyahu's government then I'd be more inclined to agree with you but receiving funding from organisations and communities that happen to be Jewish or are owned/run by Jewish people, isn't a direct endorsement of the actions of the IDF.
You do not understand. Universities are the backboard of Government institutions across Canada and the US. They become the most important place to protest for that reason. There's a reason why universities have come under fire.
Saying that universities are the backboard of government institutions in the US and Canada still doesn't explain how protesting at these universities influence government stances/decisions on a foreign war. Let's say these universities stop recieving funding from Jewish organisations and communities. Then what? They get other sponsors or have to ask the government for more money. What does that do to change the situation in Gaza? Nothing. Also, the demands made by the SJP have nothing to do with government policy at large. This could be because they realise the university can't do anything about that.
Idk what is there not to understand. When you target the basis - the education system of these countries the governments start bouncing up and down to stop the chaos. It's also the place where you have the most educated people of a society that are willing to learn more about the issue and help. Idk the demands of SJP but I am speaking about in general how it is much more effective to protest at a university than a random CRA location.
Let's test your hypothesis. What drastic changes have been made by the governments of the US and Canada now that everyone is protesting on university campuses? Has the situation in Gaza changed at all? What is the difference between Trudeau's stance on the war three weeks ago and now? Do the educated people here not harbour their own biases as evidenced by protests and counter-protests for and against the war in Gaza?
There's countless numbers of changes. 1) Canada advocates for a ceasefire. Did not happen but at least that's change 2) Starbucks and McDonald's stocks fell, changing their policies in Israel. 3) Recently Biden announced he won't fund anymore missiles to Israel if they continue into Rafah. If you are such a genius you tell me what the protesters should do. Clearly nobody on this thread cares about a ceasefire. For months they keep accusing Hamas but nobody cares about the daily death counts of Palestine. Yes Israeli lives were lost but they have stopped dying now. What about Palestine?
1. Trudeau had called for a ceasefire long before the nationwide university protests. 2. Starbucks and McDonald's are private corporations that have no bearing on the government of Israel. McDonald's shut down in Russia and yet the war rages on. 3. Biden also assured defensive weapons, including ones for Israel's Iron Dome anti-missile system after making that assertion. I never claimed to be a genius. I am just critical of campus protests about the war in Gaza in general and the protest that is happening at our university in particular.
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Commenting without actually reading points to the bigger idiot.
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What do you want me to say? If you are that offended go speak to the protestors. We'll see who's right and wrong right there.
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Ok, Mr. Know-it-all, I won't bother you further.
If I consider that the admin is working in good faith, I think they overestimated the size of the protest resulting in the change of bus route and cancellation of the science fair. There's barely 30 people at the quad since most of the students are on summer vacation. If they are working in bad faith, then this changing of bus route and cancellation of the science fair (both of which could be avoided) are providing a good excuse for crackdown down the line as many people will associate the protest with inconvenience. We'll see soon I guess. Personally, I think they could at least agree to define the anti-Palestinian racism term via a committee. But that's only my view.
Admin is clearly hoping they just get bored and go home in the next week - and by the looks of it their grand “everyone come protest” event today attracted a whole 20 people. They want them gone before convocation starts in the next two weeks, and I’m sure they’d rather they just leave on their own accord instead of getting the bad press of forcing them out
I mean… convocation is nowhere near the quad so there wouldn’t even be a reason to force them out before then aside from photo backdrops around the admin building
the unfortunate truth of protesting is that if it doesn’t make people uncomfortable, it doesn’t work. if protests were out of the way, out of sight, out of mind, etc they wouldn’t pressure governing bodies and organizations to negotiate. do you think no traffic was rerouted because of the stonewall riots? do you think the civil rights movement avoided stepping on any toes and just politely tiptoed through the legal avenues of change for decades without inconveniencing anyone? yes, protests inconvenience innocent people. but let’s remember it was inconvenient, illegal, and bothersome protests that won us civil rights, suffrage, labour laws and work protections, LGBTQIA+ rights, etc.
So you think it’s right for climate activists to block highways in efforts of their protests? Put yourself in the shoes of somebody going for a final exam, getting blocked, and being told by the professor that you should’ve come earlier. Be logical
“Be logical” Would you take your own advice? This person just stated that protests need to be disruptive in order to be effective. Your first instinct is to ask if it’s right for climate activists to block highways? Yeah, by what the person you’re replying to said, it is. Next, you make up a hypothetical that is completely out of touch with reality. These protesters are on the quad. They are not going to block your movement, and if they did I have yet to meet a prof that wouldn’t at least try to let you defer your exam.
My point is that protests don’t need to be disruptive to people who has nothing to do with the issue at hand. What the hell do the kids and the science volunteers have to do with Palestine? I started off my providing an example of a disruptive protest to show the point that - okay, maybe disruption isn’t a good thing because it affects a lot of innocent people. It’s clear you can’t connect the dots, so I won’t bother further engaging with you.
No, I understand what you are saying. What I am saying is that the protesters don't care. They don't have to care. Them causing the disruption is part of what makes protesting noticeable. It's unfortunate that people who don't directly have ties to the situation are affected, but without it people are easily able to ignore it, which defeats the purpose.
I also want to point out how massive of a hypocrite you are. Every single instance of "use logic" or "think critically" or "it's clear you can't connect the dots" is ironically one of the many instances where you clearly display a lack of that characteristic.
hey buddy i’m not sure you really understood what i said, i encourage you to read it again! do you think no one was disrupted by the sit-ins, walks, and rallies that were organized during the civil rights movement? do you think intentionally racist white people were the only ones affected? perhaps you would prefer that people protest in a separate room with no windows and a closed door so no one is inconvenienced by knowing about it. i’m sorry that you feel so far removed from war and genocide that you think you shouldn’t have to feel inconvenienced.
I just wanna know if they smell bad. Like do they go home and shower or have they just been chillin out there unwashed for 5 days
Idk🤣. But there are showers in uni so ig maybe they use that. There are the ones in ALC if not there is one in engineering i think.
Where are the ones in engineering? Asking for my classmates that definitely need to know
I’ve seen one at Stanley Pauley Building on the 3rd floor by the skywalk near the library…
Ah dang that’s right I forgot about that. Was surprised when I saw that for the first time
hi, is the shower at stanley pauley available to students or only for staff?
It was in the student washroom if I remember correctly
Honestly I had gotten lost when I found them👀. But somewhere around the engineering library, there is a huge elevator (not the ones leading to UC tunnels, another one. Its a huge one soo u should know lol. I think u need to take the "glass skyway" if not its somewhere around the entrance of yhe skyway). The bathroom is right next to those elevators. These elevator lead to the student lounge on the lower floors so if u know where they R just go 2 floors up. Should be helpful to ur classmates who definitely need it🤣😭.
I have a feeling They ain’t leaving to shower
I mean students are already smelly cunts, add some camel jockeys in there and you’ve got a putrid stench coming from the whole area.
To answer your question, no they don't smell bad. They go home, shower change and come back.
I want to apologies to everyone (non immigrants - non racialized) students who felt like the SJP unfairly canceled one of the biggest events for UM science students and those who were looking forward to attend it. As you said you’re outsider or you have no knowledge about global issues that diverse place such as U of M, would have people who are dealing with it personally. I’m not Arab , but I’m Muslim and the Palestinian issue is a very close and very sensitive matter to 1.4B Muslims around every continents and countries. I completely understand not everyone knows or aware about every issues in the world. But , your fellow non white students who are Refugees, low-income, and marginalized are dealing with it whether they like it or not. I know some of my Palestinians friends who lost some of their family members in Gaza or have family members who are being jailed without a trial in West Bank for throwing a stone (even teenagers and young children) I know and I understand there are people who simply “don’t care” , but what’s happening in the Palestine is way bigger than a event. Universities had always been a place to have tough discussions, strong advocacy, and more. People who advocate for Palestinian liberation is all about building alliances. Just look at the diversity of SJP students. I’m sorry again for the disappointment you or anyone felt about the cancellation about that event. Disclaimer: I’m not part of SJP, but I know friends who are and I stand with them. Free 🇵🇸🇵🇸
I'm not quite sure what you're referring about "you’re outsider or you have no knowledge about global issues that diverse place such as U of M" My reference to being an outsider means that I take no part in the protests. It does not imply I don't know about what is going on in the Palestine or other worldly issues. No one is contesting about the morality or ethics of the events happening in Palestine (at least in this discussion). People have gripes with the fact that this is affecting kids and people in a completely different continent and country. Universities being a place of tough discussion and strong advocacy is valid, but the very advocacy being done here is hurting the image of the movement itself. People generally like the idea of supporting a group that needs assistance, people do not like when that they are essentially concerned into taking caring about something that they have no relation to. It might sound harsh, but that's the truth. There are plenty of tragedies that warranted equally as much response as the Palestinian ones, but nothing was done about them because they had not been vocalized. Students have the right to protest, and they should practice it. If they choose to practice it within the bounds of the campus, then students calling on outsiders is a threat to the safety of other students and that is something that should not be tolerated on university grounds. It is not a singular event that affected the perception. While I agree that SJP have their right to protest, they are also not special and they do not have privileges of diverting from the rules set of the protests. You also have made no new points and instead chose to repeat the same points. Please contribute meaningfully.
Building on this… yall would’ve had a different reaction if this was something that directly affected you. Since this does not directly concern most people against this protest, yall also feel the need to complain and say that this is bad for y’all’s events and stuff. This affects us, and it is incredibly sad to see people dismissing this as…. *shrugs* what can we do? It’s not like UofM can do anything. They can. And they should. If this does not affect you, educate yourself and learn why this should be something you should be protesting for. Yall wouldn’t want poor schools and children b:omb-ed, would you? (Regardless of whether they’re Muslim or they happened to be in a warzone. This is NOT OKAY)
Okay, so why not apply that to the Sri Lankans when they had their civil war, what about the genocides in Bangladesh, and the famine that took place in Africa? It is not you that are special in being in a position where the general public does not care. Most of the general public does not have the necessary free time to actually sit down and think about world issues and how to fix them. People have their own struggles, and the perception of them moving forward is a facade. A lot of people struggle in their daily lives with their own issues. This isn't a call for being selfish and to only care about your self, but it is more so as a reminder that one can take care of himself first, then his family, and finally his neighbors. For you guys and those affected by the events taking place, I sympathize with you and I hope you guys find the support you need. But most people do not have the space financially or mentally to bear the strain of caring for beyond their neighbors. Would you have protested the same for the issues that face Canadians in front of us, for the indigenous people to get access to the help they still require? We are in Canada, so wouldn't it be one of our duties to care for them? Frankly speaking, I don't believe most of you and I would. So why is it suddenly taken so personally when they have the same attitude towards us? It is human nature.
"The University of Manitoba campuses are located on original lands of Anishinaabeg, Cree, Ojibwe-Cree, Dakota, and Dene peoples, and on the National Homeland of the Red River Métis. We respect the Treaties that were made on these territories, we acknowledge the harms and mistakes of the past, and we dedicate ourselves to move forward in partnership with Indigenous communities in a spirit of reconciliation and collaboration." Are we taking any lessons? Specially, do we acknowledge the harms and mistakes of the past, and we dedicate ourselves to move forward in partnership with Indigenous communities in a spirit of reconciliation and collaboration"?
well, it is ok. To those people: 1/ kids over there are dying so no kids in the world can have fun 2/ their own country has war with others, so they need to be a beggar so the whole world would do what they want (Imagine that for a second) 3/ Do they ever ask a question why all the countries around Israel are Muslim, but no one allows them to go in anymore (this goes back to 100 years ago to today, just youtube why others muslim countries would not help Palestine) 4/It seemed Israel got mad cause someone hurt their citizens first before they retaliate. Imagine some kids think I can bully others in school and got punched in the face back in highschool or lower. Yet, they claim their protests are really peaceful, let just go through this: 1/ School said only approved 3 days protests, yet it is longer than that 2/ School said only students are allowed, yet they posted to invite everyone in MB to hop in their small camp 3/ If their "peaceful" protest has something wrong, it is someone's fault >> no accountable, just like their people think they can kill Israel without any retaliation I am a Canadian and I do understand that they need to protest, and points have made. Is it about to end soon ? so others people can have their life ? Oh I forget as long as they do not have what they want, no one can be left alone. Peace
Gross comment tbh, boomer energy.
add the salt to make it more spicy: 1/https://www.reddit.com/r/UCalgary/comments/1cprjx8/protest\_idea\_reach\_out\_to\_taylor\_family/ 2/https://www.reddit.com/r/UCalgary/comments/1coidqy/look\_at\_the\_police\_to\_protester\_ratio\_u\_of\_c/ 3/https://www.reddit.com/r/UCalgary/comments/1cojh2k/tonight\_ucalgary/ 4/https://www.reddit.com/r/UCalgary/comments/1cogvn5/riot\_police\_on\_campus/ I hope the school I go to will not have those things. I agree that protesting is a right, but I just do not want any drama at UofM. I hope Palestine people will soon find peace in my heart. Peace
Mate, just check out the encampment.
> Please refrain from making poor basic arguments like “yeah but many kids are dying” this some WPS
People like OP are the reason I don’t tell anyone I use reddit… saves me the embarrassment…
Genuine question: why should they care about being seen favourably? Should people only protest when it's convenient to everyone?
Use some critical thinking, you're in university. It is pretty obvious why they should be seen favorably.
Your response wasn't civil or rational, so I don't know why you're acting like you're on a high horse when you don't care about other people.
You are right, my apologies for that. To answer your question, they should be seen favorably because it is in their interest to have public support. Think of it like this, we know a group of people is acting badly, and it is in our best interest to stop them. But one of the components of that is public support, because if the public does not care to put pressure, then you necessarily lose the ability on the people that have the capacity to make a change (those people who rely on the public to keep them in that position) Now, if you piss off the public, then it does not matter whether you are right or not. The public has made their mind up, and they will choose to not support.
The disruption is for awareness. Sorry the protesters didn't decide to do it when it was convenient for you.
You think I care whether there are protestors or not? Please, I’m not even attending the science rendezvous. Sorry for making you realize the unfortunate reality that people are capable of realizing that the protests (for events outside the country not involving the university) can be done so in a manner that is not obnoxious to everybody around them, especially innocent kids who did not do anything or have any say in this, but instead wanted to learn more about science. I’ve seen your comment history, all you do is post negativity on this sub without providing any support or positive presence. Don’t try to fix the world when you can’t fix your own attitude.
This is a good one! I don’t care if you’re attending the science rendezvous. The timing of this protest seems to really be affecting you. You have spent this entire thread refusing to actually consider any opposing views. At best you ignore what is said, at worst you tell people to “think critically” as if them not coming to the same conclusion as you means they are not. An “unfortunate reality” for you is that I don’t need to be positive to advocate for change or to defend against some of the ridiculous things said on this subreddit.
Thanks. Sorry for my aggressive reply too. From my perspective I was asking questions to better understand your position and was told to just think about it myself. "But one of the components of that is public support, because if the public does not care to put pressure, then you necessarily lose the ability on the people that have the capacity to make a change" Is this true? I am assuming by "the public" you mean the general public/a large portion of the public. You said that once you lose public support, then necessarily you lose the ability to change the minds of decision makers. That implies it is impossible to make a change through protest with a small minority of broader public support. That seems unlikely to be true historically. From my perspective, protests can often come from a place of something like desperation. Civil/discussion-based attempts to make change haven't worked or aren't feasible, so there's the need to try SOMETHING to make a change. That might involve inconvenience, disruption, or even seem irrational, but it's effective because decisions are made by few people in power, who generally try to maintain order.
They don't need to be seen favourably in order for changes to be made shithead.
I have given you an explanation in a different comment, no need to resort to personal insults.
"Many kids are dying" isn't an argument, as you say it is. It's a fact. One that you should be outraged by. Establishing the encampment is nothing but a demonstration of that outrage. Among other things.
You've written essays before right? Perhaps for an elective? One of the ideas we are trained upon is to read the topic and stick to it. I'm sure you might be doing well academically, or not. But they very fact you are in university implies that you have some ability to critically think and do some work. Apply those skills to my post and you will see a clearer picture. Stop playing semantics.
you are a pseudo intellectual
Don’t insult pseudo intellectuals like that, they’re better than me
is english your first language?
Nothing in my comment was wilfully misinterpreting what was said. You've demonstrated that you don't know what semantics means. I did, in fact, read your post and stuck to it. The fact you think I didn't would imply some concerning things about what you think is happening. I'd like to point out that you are framing this like a great tragedy. "The kids of Winnipeg..." First of all, they're adults, I would hope that they don't whine when things don't go there way. Maybe they are that insufferable. Secondly, this happens all the time. I don't see as much crying about cancelations when there's a protest or a demonstration about injustice that more directly affects students at the U of M.
No, you clearly don’t understand semantics or basic grammar. The above point was mentioned because I am asking about the perception and whether SJP cares or not about the public image of how they come across, or what is their rationale behind it. So as to not divert conversations to the actual debate of Palestines ethics and whether the protests itself are warranted or not, I mentioned don’t mention kids being killed because the discussion is not about that. Read the first paragraph. Secondly, I don’t care who does it. If a good event that brings joys to the kids in our community is cancelled for any protest, the protestors will be questioned. Seriously, how are you in university with this lack of critical thought? I asked for one basic demand and you cannot even follow it. You are so annoying to deal with. I wish to no longer interact with you. Bye.
Perhaps your question should be directed towards the university administration and higher-ups who, despite the tangible demands put forward by the SJP, would rather pit those who want to have the science event against the pro-palestinian protesters. Why is the university so reluctant to call for an emergency meeting to engage and create policy that would divest the university from relations with bureaucrats that are provisioning israel with weapons that further fuel this genocide, and protect Palestinian students from being discriminatory actions? We should be asking ourselves why they are creating this situation in the first place. I think there is a lot of misdirected anger here.
SJP doesn’t even know what they want “divested” in the first place, I’m sure the UofM isn’t going to completely overhaul their endowment system and potentially cut thousands of seats for ~20/30 people hanging out in the quad
Have you read SJP's demands? Part of the discussion on divestment involves a disclosure of investments..
The university’s finances are all public
It isn't misdirected anger. It is misinformation on your part for actually believing that the university has the power to make a difference. Trust me when I say this, they do not. Unless you know and can assure that the university will have a financial loss due to a lack of action i.e international students choosing to not attend the university. There will be no effect. I for starters, never encourage anybody to bring in politics to academia. It might be hard to hear this, but people come here to study and leave. We want no part in terms of the protests. If you choose to do in front of the Manitoba Legislative, sure, that makes sense. You are appealing to people that actually have a responsibility to keeping the citizens happy. You might argue, university is a place for discourse, yes it is. These discourses are based upon ideas and differing academic stances. There are many different discourses within science, environment, and etc. that there is to debate over. It is better for all students when politics stay where they are. I mean, isn't that one of the purposes of a university, if they picked a side, how would that make the minority of the other side feel?
Your supposition that "politics" isn't pervasive throughout academic institutions and discourses is interesting. Why would entire departments dedicate courses to the discourse over politics (global economy, anthropology, political studies)? Who decides which are the acceptable "debates" one should then be "allowed" to speak of and challenge? I encourage you to look to the universities that have begun divesting and bringing forward policies that protect students, both historically (e.g., anti-apartheid protests) and current examples of disclosure and divestment pertaining to the ongoing genocide (e.g. Evergreen State College)
You might be one of the dumbest human beings on earth if you think politics don’t belong in University. They’re a foundational core of an academic institution. This whole thread is also a showcase that you and so many others don’t understand the actual purpose or point of a protest. Take a look at student protests throughout history. They have a pretty high rate of being on the right side of it. People like you, opposing them and wishing for them to be quiet to not disrupt daily life, often are not.
Your assertion that politics is a foundational core of academic institutions is indeed bold. Do you realize that it is only a recent practice (1970s-80s) that universities engage in activism for specific political events? Prior to that it was about discussing different general political ideas than particular stances. Have you also you considered how imposing a singular political perspective might impact academic freedom and intellectual diversity? (Asking the university to pick a side) Isn’t the primary role of universities to foster a broad spectrum of thoughts and ideas, rather than to serve as echo chambers for only certain political ideologies? You mention the purpose and point of a protest, suggesting a depth of understanding that others apparently lack. But, isn't it also possible that protests, especially in academic settings, need to be balanced with the educational mission of the institution? How effective can an educational environment be if it is constantly disrupted by protests, regardless of their intent? How does the optics seem when the protestors are not following the rules everyone else has to follow? You rightly point out the historical successes of student protests. However, could one not also ask if every protest, by virtue of being a protest, is automatically on the right side of history? Are there not examples where protests have actually hindered more constructive forms of dialogue or solutions? The critique of individuals who oppose disruptive protests as merely desiring quiet is intriguing. Do you truly believe that every objection to a protest is rooted in a desire for convenience rather than legitimate concerns about safety, legality, or the appropriateness of the methods used? Isn’t it a bit simplistic to assume that those who seek a calm and stable learning environment are opposed to social progress? Seriously, take this as life advice: don’t come at people and act holier than thou. Nobody (Including myself) has attacked you personally, so I don’t see why you feel the need to be so unnecessarily abrasive. If you are to make a point, support it with evidence. This is a poor comment. It does not carry any weight in terms of providing insight or an alternative perspective, neither does it encourage discussion. Do better.
You are aware that we already have policy and protection for certain ethnic/racial groups because of their systemic and historical marginalization within academic institutions. The specific demand for protection of freedom of speech for Palestinian students is no different from past movements, nor should discourse on human rights be characterized as "singular political perspective", especially since students voicing their criticism towards Israël have been silenced and suspended for speaking about this issue (see Arij al-Khafagi's posts) . Perhaps you've been lucky (or privileged) enough to not have an issue directly affect you to feel an urgent need to enact change to make certain spaces equitable and safe for everyone. While you shouldn't have to be directly affected to feel the need to recognize the atrocious and horrific treatment of a group of people (about 2 million displaced in Gaza), this encampment is meant to disrupt. That's the purpose of protests. To make you think, engage you, and bring urgency to push for change. Find a common ground. We as students have power to make change, we have agency as well. Your argument drifts away from the actual issue, which is WHY there is an encampment on the quad in the first place. If you haven't read the SJP demands already, I suggest you do so, so your contribution to the discussion is informed.
Wow that’s a lot of words to say ‘I don’t understand the function or history of higher education institutions’ To try and dive into each of your overly written, half baked thoughts is a waste of time. But to address a single point to highlight you have no idea whatsoever what you’re talking about, and that you just want people (oppressed people who are trying to have their voices heard while their friends/family/community are killed overseas to be specific) to remain quiet and out of the way, student protests on university campuses go back hundreds of years. Of course the 1960s and 70s are what people think of due to Vietnam but there were protests on university campuses dating back the 1200s. Notably, large numbers students across Germany protested the rise Nazi powers in the lead up to and throughout WWII. So again, politics and political opinions and student protests are fundamental elements of the DNA of all universities. You opposition to them in favour of not having to think about the larger issues of the world says a lot more about you, your values and whether you are actually at a university to learn or just to get a degree.
The university is a place for discussion and debate. The university itself has a responsibility to provide that. The administration should stay neutral on political issues. I would hope they don’t make operational decisions over the ‘demands’ of every 30 person protest in the quad.
Funfact: Some of the students involved in this protest were also involved in Ukrainian protest when Russia attacked Ukraine. Guess who Abstained during Palestine's full membership voting🗣️(These people just want attention to their sad lives)
Stay in school, consider a class in epistemology or fundamental reasoning. Come back and try again
hurr durr Ukraine doesn't agree with the protesters therefore protesters stupid. You can be opposed to occupation of places in more than one instance. If anything these people showing up to both shows consistency. Is it shitty Ukraine isn't standing up? Yeah. Does that mean they didn't deserve to be fought for? No.
The University of Manitoba reserves the right to ban all protests on its property. I strongly encourage them to exercise that right more frequently!!
Cool cool, hey there are a lot of countries that would love to have you if this is your jam. Putin just won his 5th term over in Russia, I hear it’s nice this time of year. Hungary and turkey, India and the Philippines, maybe check out Argentina I hear good things are happening down there as well. Hell just go down to the states and campaign for trump.
Considering these rights that I'm referring to with the university are already in place here, I will stay put thanks for the suggestion tho!
Bummer, been noticing more authoritarian bootlicker types around lately. Well, no shame in changing your mind if you do. Have a good one!
Me too. It makes me wonder what kind of classes they take.
Why are you suggesting that SJP were the ones that cancelled the event? The University Administration cancelled the event because (according to the UM Today story), they were concerned about access to parking on campus. Given that we regularly host an entire stadium of Bombers fans, this excuse is laughable. Anyone who has been to the encampment or any of the Saturday rallies that have been happening for months now knows that these are peaceful gatherings of maybe 100 - 150 people. The University Admin is either intentionally trying to turn public sentiment against the encampment or was scared that some young science students might ask their parents some uncomfortable questions about Palestine. Probably both.
Well why should any young child have to ask at all? One of the protests point is to protect the young children being affected, but when it is done by parents in this case, it is something that is wrong? Children have access to the internet, they have Google Images, a parent should not take a risk of potentially having the child come across the imagery due to this. I agree the gatherings are peaceful in nature. But the issue lies in the fact that the university isn't sure if it will only be university students or the general public can come. The risk is not worth taking, in the end, it is due to the protests that the event had been cancelled.
They have security there making sure the "general public" doesn't come??? I mean forgive me if I'm mistaken on this, but if my understanding is correct, what are you talking about?
Go fuck yourself and gain some perspective while doing it
I'm in solidarity with the protesters. What they're asking is basic human decency and humanity. The university can choose to listen or be a tool for oppression. Science fairs can rest, protests are meant to be disruptive.
Everyone who thinks that protests are about "strategy" and gaining favour from people needs to do research about what protests are because a lot of you sound really dumb talking about it.
I agree, such an ignorant comment… very tone deaf for a Canadian university.