Pro-Palestinian camp | Tension rises at McGill

Tension is growing between McGill and the hundred or so pro-Palestinian students who have been camped on the university grounds since Saturday. “We are ready for any confrontation,” a protest spokesperson said on Monday.

Around sixty tents are now set up on the university campus, three times more than at the start of the event.

On Monday, rumors circulated inside the encampment about an imminent dismantling: nothing to demotivate the activists.

“If the administration wants to force us to leave, we are ready to stay,” assured Ali, a spokesperson for the movement. We have strategies. We have students who are ready to form pickets. »

The protesters, including Arab and Jewish students, are demanding that their administration cut all ties with Israel. A demand which is part of a larger movement of pro-Palestinian demonstrations across American campuses.

“There are no more universities in Gaza. My tuition fees are used to finance my education, not bombs,” denounced Zia, who intends to demonstrate “as long as necessary”.

The camp, visible from Sherbrooke Street, is closed to the public. At the passage of The Presssympathizers to the cause passed bottles of water through the barricades plastered with slogans.

The support from the community has been “incredible” so far, Ali noted. “We received a lot of donations: water, equipment, food…”

McGill University addressed the situation in an email sent to students on Monday.

“Last night we viewed video evidence of individuals engaging in intimidating behavior and making blatantly anti-Semitic comments, which is completely unacceptable on our campuses. We strongly and unreservedly condemn these actions and comments and will immediately carry out an investigation,” she said.

“I can say with certainty that there was no anti-Semitism, and I speak as a Jew,” replied Ezra Rosen, who spent the night outside.

The day before, the campers had even shared a Passover meal. “I feel safe here,” he added. Everyone takes care of each other. »

According to the administration, the campers did not make any proposals aimed at “advancing the dialogue”, refusing to continue negotiations.

“Instead, the protesters indicated that they intended to remain on campus indefinitely,” the email said.

“The senior management of McGill University is currently meeting to discuss the next steps it intends to take and will announce its decision shortly. »