STOP PRESS
A delegation from the liberated space will be meeting with the Principal Sir Muir Russell, Head of Corporate Communications Susan Stewart and Secretary of the University Court David Newell today at 12 noon in the Fraser building on behalf of the people of Gaza and over 1000 staff and students on campus who are in solidarity with their suffering. Please come to the demo at 11am and be present outside the Fraser building at 12 noon to provide visible and vocal support!
As stated, there will be also be a press conference today and a visit from the Rt Hon Charles Kennedy, University Rector.
Here's some of the attention we've had so far. It's probably necessary to clarify a few things. There was a demonstration of around a hundred people around the Uni on Monday, around 60 of whom joined the occupation (the GU Guardian reporting team also entered the building with us). 40 of these people stayed in the building and have been holding the liberated space since then. We have always been pushing for negotiations and if these have not taken place it has been due to difficulties on the side of the management. We have also conducted our action in a peaceful and lawful manner and have at no point disrupted the business of students or staff.
Scotland Today, Tuesday 10th Feb, 6pm: http://news.stv.tv/scotland/videoPlayer-4/#video-choice
We've heard we we were also featured on BBC Scotland.
http://thescotsman.scotsman.com/glasgow/Protesting-students-fly-the-flag.4966800.jp
http://news.stv.tv/scotland/75207-students-stage-rooftop-protest-against-universitys-israel-connections/
http://pulsemedia.org/2009/02/09/glasgow-university-student-occupation/
http://www.indymedia.org.uk/en/2009/02/421820.html
http://scotland.indymedia.org/node/12682
http://occupations.org.uk/
http://www.lasthours.org.uk/news/glasgow-university-occupied/
http://clipmarks.com/clipmark/DF0F71A3-7930-41FE-A947-F95299534785/
http://www.scottishpsc.org.uk/
http://gazasolidarity.blogspot.com/2009/02/glasgow-university-in-occupation.html
We'd like to post a pertinent message from Aaron Franks:
Hello,
I'm writing in support of the occupiers in the Computing Science Building and believe the SRC's position as stated on the SRC homepage misses a crucial point. While the issues concerning Palestine, Gaza in particular, and Israel are indeed complex, certain things are brutally and unavoidably clear.
The Israeli war against Gazans was disproportionate by design, and links between institutions like University of Glasgow, BAE, and Qinetiq (arms manufacturers) are part of that design. The UN is in the process of preparing investigations on the Israeli targeting of civilians with white phosphorus ammunition (illegal). The use of cluster bombs, while "legal" strictly speaking, cannot be unchallenged either.
The University of Glasgow must break any commercial or institutional ties with known weapons traders and manufacturers, and as the student occupation currently in the Computing Building is in support of that, I see no contradiction in the SRC supporting them while also representing the interests of the 24 000 students here.
Yours,
Aaron Franks
PhD Human Geography
East Quad
Wednesday, 11 February 2009
Tuesday, 10 February 2009
Message of Support from Sandra White, MSP
As someone who visited Gaza a few months ago and saw the suffering of the Palestinian people first hand I promised that on my return to Scotland I would do my utmost to ensure that everyone was aware of what was happening in Gaza .
I never envisaged that just weeks after my return that Israel would embark on such a savage sustained attack on Gaza and its people leaving 1,3OO people dead and many more wounded . I have been left devasted by this and am even more committed to informing all I know to the plight of the people of Gaza and the disgraceful wall of silence practiced by some .
The actions of the people taking part in the sit in at Glasgow University are borne out of reasons I have mentioned above and sheer frustration at the inaction of many who could do something to highlight the situation in Gaza today and the ongoing situation of Palestinians in general .
I would ask that the University look seriously at the suggestions made by the group, meet with them , I am happy to attend and in the name of justice and humanity help the people of Gaza and Palestine
Yours
Sandra White MSP
I never envisaged that just weeks after my return that Israel would embark on such a savage sustained attack on Gaza and its people leaving 1,3OO people dead and many more wounded . I have been left devasted by this and am even more committed to informing all I know to the plight of the people of Gaza and the disgraceful wall of silence practiced by some .
The actions of the people taking part in the sit in at Glasgow University are borne out of reasons I have mentioned above and sheer frustration at the inaction of many who could do something to highlight the situation in Gaza today and the ongoing situation of Palestinians in general .
I would ask that the University look seriously at the suggestions made by the group, meet with them , I am happy to attend and in the name of justice and humanity help the people of Gaza and Palestine
Yours
Sandra White MSP
Fourth Press Release - Charles Kennedy to Visit Occupation
4th Press Release- Charles Kennedy to visit protestors
Glasgow University Rector, Charles Kennedy M.P, has agreed to visit us here at the occupied space on the top floor of the Computing Science Building. Mr Kennedy gave assurances at a debate over the DEC Gaza appeal at the Glasgow University Union earlier this evening that he will be visiting at some point tomorrow morning to discuss our demands. We will be holding a press conference at this meeting. There will be a demonstration on campus at 11 am tomorrow in support of our action and demands.
Glasgow University Student Occupation
Glasgow University Rector, Charles Kennedy M.P, has agreed to visit us here at the occupied space on the top floor of the Computing Science Building. Mr Kennedy gave assurances at a debate over the DEC Gaza appeal at the Glasgow University Union earlier this evening that he will be visiting at some point tomorrow morning to discuss our demands. We will be holding a press conference at this meeting. There will be a demonstration on campus at 11 am tomorrow in support of our action and demands.
Glasgow University Student Occupation
Day 2 Update
We have been attempting to maintain lines of communication with senior management , as we have been consistently from before the occupation started. We have found it difficult to talk to management as they have refused to give us any concrete response to any of our written correspondence. We have also been consistently keen to negotiate face to face with the Principal. However, although their has been an offer extended for a delegation of us to meet him, we have been reluctant to accept this as the University has so far been inconsistent in its dealings with us, including the incident this morning where we were lied to over a freedom of movement issue whilst in talks with senior management. We outlined a clear proposal for meeting the Principal on neutral ground, however, this was rejected. We want to underline the fact that we do not consider that we are obstructing negotiations in any way and that we are disappointed that the Principal has refused to adequately respond to our written communication.
Today, in the space of a few hours, dozens of supporters of the occupation rallied outside and collected the signatures of 350 students and 45 lecturers who affirmed their support for the people of Palestine and called for an Extraordinary General Meeting at the SRC over Gaza. It looks like this will be happening in the next ten days or so!
We also now have over 1000 signatures across our original petitions: (http://www.gopetition.co.uk/petitions/dec-gaza-crisis-appeal/signatures.html) and (http://www.gopetition.co.uk/petitions/the-blood-money-stops-now.html).
There was a large and visible presence on campus today, and an STV film crew turned up to film proceedings, as did a journalist from the Scotsman. Journalists from the GU Guardian and the Strathclyde Uni paper were also reporting. Later in the day, a journalist from Radio Clyde came to interview supporters outside (the University have not allowed press into the building at any point during the occupation). There was a 20-minute live interview with Radio Avaaz and a live five-minute interview with Sunny Govan Radio! (http://www.sunnygovancommunitymedia.org/). We are expecting more media coverage tomorrow, including journalists from the Herald and Sunny Govan.
There have been countless messages of support from around Scotland, the UK and the world. Those sending the messages have included: MSPs such as Bill Kidd, Sandra White and Pauline McNeil - Iain Ferguson, candidate for President, UCU Scotland - numerous academics - Lindsay German, National Convenor Stop the War Coalition - Scottish Jews for a Just Peace - Alex Mosson, former Lord Provost of Glasgow and honorary doctorate of Glasgow University - Scottish Afghan Society - Glasgow Palestine Human Rights Campaign - Glasgow Campaign to Welcome Refugees - GU Action Palestine - Aamer Anwar, human rights lawyer - Michael Lavalette, Preston City Councillor - Tommy Sheridan, Solidarity Scotland - UNITE Scottish Housing Branch - Scotland Against Criminalising Communities - Colin Turbett, Unison North Ayrshire - Katy Clark, Labour MP, North Ayshire and Arran - Scottish Socialist Party
There was a great victory today on campus as protesting students shut down a BAE stall at an intern fair! This follows the precedent around the UK as students around the country have shown that death merchants are not welcome in places of learning - several English student unions have already voted to ban arms companies from promoting themselves in their universities. Students had a noise demo outside the Bute hall and stopped BAE Systems from recruiting anyone today as University staff sealed off the building in response. Students have been demonstrating and informing people all over campus all day and are still outside making noise as I type this at 21:20! The positive response they have received from students and staff has been overwhelming.
We had a lovely surprise this afternoon when Danny Alderslowe, Green Councillor for Southside Central, paid us a visit! Danny brought up some fruit and cereal bars which were greatly appreciated, as was his message of support. More importantly, he also spent time working on the Green Party's official response and contacting a whole host of political and media contacts. He's been contacting the management directly and should be speaking at the demonstration tomorrow.
STOP PRESS
Following a debate tonight in the GUU over the BBC's decision not to show the DEC appeal, we have an assurance that the Rt Hon Charles Kennedy, University Rector, will be coming to the liberated space tomorrow to meet the occupiers and discuss what's been happening! We will also be holding a press conference (see press release).
Today, in the space of a few hours, dozens of supporters of the occupation rallied outside and collected the signatures of 350 students and 45 lecturers who affirmed their support for the people of Palestine and called for an Extraordinary General Meeting at the SRC over Gaza. It looks like this will be happening in the next ten days or so!
We also now have over 1000 signatures across our original petitions: (http://www.gopetition.co.uk/petitions/dec-gaza-crisis-appeal/signatures.html) and (http://www.gopetition.co.uk/petitions/the-blood-money-stops-now.html).
There was a large and visible presence on campus today, and an STV film crew turned up to film proceedings, as did a journalist from the Scotsman. Journalists from the GU Guardian and the Strathclyde Uni paper were also reporting. Later in the day, a journalist from Radio Clyde came to interview supporters outside (the University have not allowed press into the building at any point during the occupation). There was a 20-minute live interview with Radio Avaaz and a live five-minute interview with Sunny Govan Radio! (http://www.sunnygovancommunitymedia.org/). We are expecting more media coverage tomorrow, including journalists from the Herald and Sunny Govan.
There have been countless messages of support from around Scotland, the UK and the world. Those sending the messages have included: MSPs such as Bill Kidd, Sandra White and Pauline McNeil - Iain Ferguson, candidate for President, UCU Scotland - numerous academics - Lindsay German, National Convenor Stop the War Coalition - Scottish Jews for a Just Peace - Alex Mosson, former Lord Provost of Glasgow and honorary doctorate of Glasgow University - Scottish Afghan Society - Glasgow Palestine Human Rights Campaign - Glasgow Campaign to Welcome Refugees - GU Action Palestine - Aamer Anwar, human rights lawyer - Michael Lavalette, Preston City Councillor - Tommy Sheridan, Solidarity Scotland - UNITE Scottish Housing Branch - Scotland Against Criminalising Communities - Colin Turbett, Unison North Ayrshire - Katy Clark, Labour MP, North Ayshire and Arran - Scottish Socialist Party
There was a great victory today on campus as protesting students shut down a BAE stall at an intern fair! This follows the precedent around the UK as students around the country have shown that death merchants are not welcome in places of learning - several English student unions have already voted to ban arms companies from promoting themselves in their universities. Students had a noise demo outside the Bute hall and stopped BAE Systems from recruiting anyone today as University staff sealed off the building in response. Students have been demonstrating and informing people all over campus all day and are still outside making noise as I type this at 21:20! The positive response they have received from students and staff has been overwhelming.
We had a lovely surprise this afternoon when Danny Alderslowe, Green Councillor for Southside Central, paid us a visit! Danny brought up some fruit and cereal bars which were greatly appreciated, as was his message of support. More importantly, he also spent time working on the Green Party's official response and contacting a whole host of political and media contacts. He's been contacting the management directly and should be speaking at the demonstration tomorrow.
STOP PRESS
Following a debate tonight in the GUU over the BBC's decision not to show the DEC appeal, we have an assurance that the Rt Hon Charles Kennedy, University Rector, will be coming to the liberated space tomorrow to meet the occupiers and discuss what's been happening! We will also be holding a press conference (see press release).
The University's Response
Dear all,
Thank you for your message regarding a meeting with the Principal. I have discussed this with him, and he is very happy to meet with up to five delegates from the group. The meeting would not take place in the computer science building, but I would give you a complete assurance that those attending would be allowed to return to occupied space. Our view is that there is no need to appoint a chair for this meeting, and that it will not be helpful to have a video tape running.
I have included below a statement that the Principal asked me to send you just a few minutes before your own email arrived. As well as repeating his willingness to meet, it refers to the University's investment policy, which, among other things, he is happy to explore with you.
David Newall
Message from the Principal
When you first submitted your petitions, I said I was willing to meet with representatives of your group to discuss the issues that concern you. I am sorry you have not accepted that offer.
I have attached the response that I initially made to your demands and petitions. One point that was not covered in this was investment policy. On that point I would advise you that the University has no direct investment in the companies you have identified as being of concern to you, and that it requires all of its investment managers to have a Socially Responsible Investment Policy.
As David Newall and Susan Stewart advised you this morning, I remain willing to meet with representatives of the group. I look forward to hearing from you.
Muir Russell
Thank you for your message regarding a meeting with the Principal. I have discussed this with him, and he is very happy to meet with up to five delegates from the group. The meeting would not take place in the computer science building, but I would give you a complete assurance that those attending would be allowed to return to occupied space. Our view is that there is no need to appoint a chair for this meeting, and that it will not be helpful to have a video tape running.
I have included below a statement that the Principal asked me to send you just a few minutes before your own email arrived. As well as repeating his willingness to meet, it refers to the University's investment policy, which, among other things, he is happy to explore with you.
David Newall
Message from the Principal
When you first submitted your petitions, I said I was willing to meet with representatives of your group to discuss the issues that concern you. I am sorry you have not accepted that offer.
I have attached the response that I initially made to your demands and petitions. One point that was not covered in this was investment policy. On that point I would advise you that the University has no direct investment in the companies you have identified as being of concern to you, and that it requires all of its investment managers to have a Socially Responsible Investment Policy.
As David Newall and Susan Stewart advised you this morning, I remain willing to meet with representatives of the group. I look forward to hearing from you.
Muir Russell
Email to the University from the Occupation
Dear Mr Newall,
RE: Meeting
We are disappointed with the university's decision to restrict freedom of movement and we find that this restricts the concessions we can make to you and all agree that you have backed us into a corner. We would like to make it clear, once again, that we are more than willing to negotiate and come to a reasonable compromise which seems balanced and ethical with regards to the situation in Palestine. We also feel that the relations of trust have broken down as in our meeting this morning it was agreed that it would be acceptable for two people to exit and re-enter the building so that we could buy food. This agreement was broken by university security. We would now like to propose a meeting take place with the principal and with a delegation of people from our group. As you know this is a compromise on our behalf and as a result we have our own conditions with which we would like you to comply:
1. The meeting must take place in the computer science building, however, not necessarily in the occupation itself. This is because we have been told we have no freedom of movement.
2. There will be a minimum of five delegates. We also have the right to alternate our delegates as we see fit.
3. The delegates will be permitted to return to the group whenever they see fit.
4. We must have signed confirmation that the delegators will be able to return to the occupied space. If this promise is reneged, as other promises have been, then all agreements from the meeting will be void.
5. We would like to video tape the meeting.
6. We must choose the chair.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Yours
Glasgow University Student Occupation.
RE: Meeting
We are disappointed with the university's decision to restrict freedom of movement and we find that this restricts the concessions we can make to you and all agree that you have backed us into a corner. We would like to make it clear, once again, that we are more than willing to negotiate and come to a reasonable compromise which seems balanced and ethical with regards to the situation in Palestine. We also feel that the relations of trust have broken down as in our meeting this morning it was agreed that it would be acceptable for two people to exit and re-enter the building so that we could buy food. This agreement was broken by university security. We would now like to propose a meeting take place with the principal and with a delegation of people from our group. As you know this is a compromise on our behalf and as a result we have our own conditions with which we would like you to comply:
1. The meeting must take place in the computer science building, however, not necessarily in the occupation itself. This is because we have been told we have no freedom of movement.
2. There will be a minimum of five delegates. We also have the right to alternate our delegates as we see fit.
3. The delegates will be permitted to return to the group whenever they see fit.
4. We must have signed confirmation that the delegators will be able to return to the occupied space. If this promise is reneged, as other promises have been, then all agreements from the meeting will be void.
5. We would like to video tape the meeting.
6. We must choose the chair.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Yours
Glasgow University Student Occupation.
Third Press Release
DEMO FOR PALESTINE
WEDNESDAY 11th FEBRUARY
IN FRONT OF THE OCCUPIED COMPUTING SCIENCE BUILDING, GLASGOW UNIVERSITY
11am
We, Glasgow University students, have been occupying the Computing Science Building at Glasgow University, in solidarity with the people of Gaza and against our University’s investment and research links with arms companies, for approximately 24 hours.
At approximately 9.30 am this morning we met with two representatives of the Universities management team, Susan Stewart (Head of Corporate Communications) and David Newall (Secretary of the court) and a representative of University Security, Jim Kane. We again reiterated our demands, including the basic demand for freedom of movement and assembly for people into and out of the occupied space. The University management were reticent to agree to any of our demands. At the meeting we were given a guarantee that two people at a time would be allowed to leave the space in order to pick up food and supplies and would not be barred from re-entering. 10 minutes after this agreement was made two students leaving for food for the occupation were told that they would be not allowed back in. This has led to a break down of trust between we, the occupation and the University management and has undermined our ability to compromise.
At 11 am a rally of support, of some 60 students, took place outside the Computing Science Building. There will be another rally and demonstration at the same time tomorrow.
At 12noon the management responded via email to our demands. The University, by refusing entry to the occupied space to anyone, is clearly restricting the right of the press, legal representatives, and other students to hear our demands and discuss the occupation. The University have yet to meet any of our demands and the Principal, Muir Russell, is refusing to meet within the occupied space despite denying us freedom to leave and re-enter.
Contacts:
glasgowunioccupation@gmail.com
glasgowunioccupation.blogspot.com
David Lynch: 07838661699
Raymie Kiernan: 07920403766
Eileen Boyle : 07884345731
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