(Photograph credits @imdmilo)
Students at the University of Leeds have initiated an encampment in solidarity with the Palestinian people. Their protest aims to challenge the University’s complicity in the Israeli government’s actions and demand greater accountability and support for Palestine. The students feel that the University’s current efforts fall short of addressing the gravity of the situation, prompting them to write a list of demands for change. Leeds University has ties with BAE Systems- a multinational aerospace, defense and information security company that provides the Israeli Air Force with weapons systems. The encampment also demands that Leeds University end their partnerships with Israeli Universities and to remove war criminals from campus.
The Ayaz Rana Foundation is a charity dedicated to facilitating the impoverished and the deprived in their everyday lives. They have been involved with the Leeds encampment, posting online and staying active within Leeds. They feel that ‘by establishing a physical presence on campus grounds, these encampments serve as a constant, visual reminder of the ongoing issues. The encampment at Leeds uni created a mini-community where discussions about the conflict were not only encouraged but were central to the encampment’s existence. Student action is instrumental in creating change, as students often bring fresh energy and innovative approaches to complex issues.’
The encampment at the University of Leeds has been a hub of activity, hosting a numerous number of events such as talent shows and second-hand sales. These initiatives foster engagement, emphasizing the crucial role that students play in bringing attention to the cause. By creating opportunities for participation and creativity, the encampment serves as a platform for raising awareness amongst students and the public alike.
Leeds History student Ara Moore spoke about his experience engaging with the encampment. ‘It’s super important for students to stand up for what they believe in, especially as our University claims to be progressive. I have a lot of respect for the people within the encampment and I have always stuck around to listen to speeches’.
Leeds University released a statement concerning the hostility towards the members of the encampment. ‘Students… have been harassed, intimidated, and attacked. We condemn hostility towards peaceful protesters and demand the University respect and uphold the students’ rights to safety and freedom of speech.’
The next student walkout event is happing on Tuesday 14th May. LeedsStudents4Palestine ask you to join them and call for an end to the University’s complicity in Israel’s atrocities and fight for the freedom of Palestinians.