June 8th, 2024
On Thursday, June 6th, student activists occupied the James Administration building demanding divestment in support of the Palestinian people. While this was occurring, students and community members standing outside the building were tear gassed and pepper sprayed by riot police.
The events of that afternoon were horrifying, further exacerbating divisions between students and administration. Only McGill administration has the power to remove SPVM from campus; to collaborate with students in good faith; and to start healing these wounds.
While the occupation of the James Administration Building was unsettling for some staff in the building, McGill administration is unwilling to recognize the harm their inaction on divestment is causing to our community. Our university does not keep us safe, so we must keep ourselves safe. Let’s show a strong and unified front against police on campus and police brutality.
In solidarity with our students above all else,
Signed,
The SSMU Executives
