Pro-Palestinian Activists Rally Against Glasgow University’s Ties to Arms Firms
In a bold demonstration against Glasgow University’s connections to arms companies supplying Israel, student activists from the University Justice for Palestine Society (GUJPS) and Glasgow Against Arms & Fossil Fuels (GAAFF) seized the Charles Wilson building at the crack of dawn. The occupation, spearheaded by passionate campaigners, aims to shed light on the university’s complicity in the supply chain of weapons fueling conflict in the Middle East.
Voices of Change
“I’m here today because western institutions cannot keep profiting from the blood of my people in Palestine with immunity,” declared Ilyas Jarrar, a fervent student participant in the protest. With a resolute stand against the university’s questionable affiliations, Jarrar emphasized the need for accountability and a shift towards a more ethical stance. His sentiments echo the collective sentiment of the activists who seek to create an educational space free from the shackles of institutional bias.
The call for action resonates deeply with John Turnbull, another student protester who expressed his moral obligation to speak out against the atrocities plaguing Palestine. “Being here today is a simple moral obligation. I find it disgusting that my university can so brazenly support perhaps the most brutal genocide of my lifetime,” Turnbull lamented. His words underscore the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for change.
Redefining Activism
Amidst the occupation, the activists have planned a series of enlightening events, including a ‘teach-in’ session and insightful lectures delving into the complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict. The initiative aims to foster a deeper understanding of the issues at hand while challenging the status quo. By renaming the Wilson building to the Ahmad Manasra Building, the activists honor the resilience of a Palestinian man imprisoned by Israel since his adolescence, symbolizing the unwavering spirit of resistance.
Moreover, the protestors have set their sights on fostering critical dialogue through talks by academics and students, offering a platform for voices often marginalized in mainstream discourse. With sessions like ‘Jewish Anti-Zionism and The Radical Jewish Tradition’ and a screening of the documentary ‘Jenin, Jenin’, the activists aim to broaden perspectives and ignite conversations that transcend conventional narratives.
As the campaign gains momentum, it sheds light on the university’s Socially Responsible Investment Policy (SRI) and the pressing need for divestment from arms companies. Despite overwhelming support for excluding investments in defense firms, the University court’s decision to uphold ties with arms suppliers has sparked criticism from the Student Representative Council (SRC), amplifying calls for ethical accountability.
In the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East, the activists’ unwavering resolve underscores a broader narrative of social justice and solidarity. By challenging institutional norms and advocating for a more conscientious approach to investment, the protesters embody the spirit of grassroots activism, urging stakeholders to reevaluate their roles in shaping a more equitable future.
With each impassioned plea and resolute stand, the activists at Glasgow University epitomize the power of collective action in the face of adversity. As the calls for justice reverberate through the hallowed halls of academia, a poignant reminder emerges – the quest for change begins with a single voice, amplified by the chorus of solidarity and unwavering determination.
