ANU has offered respectful and safe options for protests to continue, including discussions with protestors on their demands for financial transparency and divestment from companies linked to Israel. The university has emphasized the importance of safe and appropriate protest on campus, in adherence to Australian law and codes of conduct.
The students for Palestine at ANU have relocated their Gaza solidarity encampment from Kambri Lawns to University Avenue after being asked to vacate the lawns due to safety concerns. The group organized a rally to exercise their right to protest and demand the university’s non-complicity in what they call an “unfolding genocide.”
ANU Deputy Vice-Chancellor Grady Venville stated that the university has provided options for protestors to continue their protests in ways that are respectful and safe for the entire university community. The university is open to discussions with protestors regarding their demands and socially responsible investment policies.
The students for Palestine have reiterated their goal of ensuring their ANU degrees do not contribute to genocide, calling for the disclosure and divestment of university investments. The group remains committed to their cause despite relocation and safety concerns.
In related news, University of Melbourne students for Palestine ended their encampment at the Arts West building after the vice chancellor directed them to leave due to safety and damage concerns. The university noted the disruption caused by the encampment and concerns about the safety of Jewish students and staff on campus. Political leaders have called for an end to reckless behavior at pro-Palestinian encampments across Australia.
In response to recent events, LaTrobe University students were compelled to disband their camp at the Bundoora Campus following a directive from the university. The university emphasized its zero-tolerance policy towards discrimination, racism, antisemitism, or Islamophobia.
Regarding the situation, a university spokesperson stated, “Although the protests at La Trobe have been relatively peaceful and no classes have been interrupted to date, the university has considered the risks associated with the continued encampment activity, and has taken this decision in the interests of the safety, wellbeing and amenity of all campus users and visitors.”
Meanwhile, RMIT students for Palestine have announced the conclusion of their encampment on May 30 with the end of the teaching semester. A student and staff rally is planned to give the camp a proper “send off” and to advocate for the university to sever ties with weapon suppliers.
The group organizing the RMIT encampment stated, “RMIT’s teaching semester is ending for winter break. We will have been occupying Alumni courtyard for four weeks. Our encampment will hold a closing rally on Thursday at 12pm.”
Additionally, on May 24, a distressing incident took place where the words “Jew Die” were spray-painted on the fence of a Melbourne Jewish school. This act was strongly condemned by various political figures, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Ms. Henderson.
