The Australian uni students camping out in support of Palestine
May 8, 2024
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Journalist Daisy Dumas and activist Caitlin Cassidy discuss the pro-Palestine student encampments at Australian universities, advocating for divestment and ceasefire. They explore the peaceful atmosphere, community support, and contrast with US protests. The students show dedication despite challenges and aim for tangible change.
Students demand divestment, ceasefire, and cutting ties with Israel at Australian universities.
Challenges include hostility, skepticism, and calls for police involvement in peaceful protests.
Deep dives
Background and Objectives of the Pro-Palestine Encampments
Pro-Palestine encampments have emerged at universities in Australia, protesting Israel's actions in Gaza. The camp at the University of Sydney aims for divestment, a ceasefire, and cutting ties with Israel. The atmosphere at the camp is described as peaceful, inclusive, and community-supported, with diverse participants wanting to make a statement through peaceful protest.
Diverse Demands and University Responses
Students across Australian universities demand the disclosure of ties with Israeli weapon manufacturers and academic boycotts. Universities have mostly supported free speech and peaceful protests, preferring dialogue over police intervention. The National Tertiary Education Union endorses peaceful protest and academic freedom, with some universities debating motions to sever ties with Israel.
Challenges, Community Support, and Future of the Protests
Challenges include hostile reactions to the encampments, skepticism from some Jewish communities, and calls to involve police to end protests. Despite minor disruptions, Australian protests remain peaceful, contrasting with US reactions. Calls for dialogue and peaceful protests continue, with uncertain timelines for the duration of the encampments.
Last Tuesday, tents appeared on the lawn of the University of Sydney as students protested against the war in Gaza. The tents have multiplied, with similar student encampments now established at universities in every state in the country. Jane Lee speaks to Daisy Dumas and Caitlin Cassidy about what the protesters want and whether this growing movement could lead to change. You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport
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