On Friday 28 March, a rally organized by the University of Edinburgh’s Justice for Palestine Society (EUJPS) took place in front of the University of Edinburgh library, demanding divestment from companies including Alphabet, Microsoft, Amazon, and Lockheed Martin.
The gathering began at 2 pm in front of the Main Library and later moved towards Old College, where participants continued their demonstrations in front of the university administration offices.
A participant stated: “I want to be here to show them that the students aren’t satisfied whatsoever. Disclose and divest, as the chants say. When people are occupied, resistance is justified. This institution cannot hide from its complicity.”
Protestors additionally criticized the university’s collaboration with the Israeli Occupying Forces (IOF) for an on-campus campus security event earlier this year, as well as the university’s lack of financial transparency.
Students further voiced their frustrations with the university’s treatment of demonstrations, notably when addressing the JPS’ protests and activities.
One protestor noted that “the university has never dealt in good faith with the JPS,” relying on insubstantial working groups and police presence to “delay and distract” from student demands.
International students particularly expressed fears about protesting, citing recent visa revocations of pro-Palestine students in the U.S.
“We have an international friend who didn’t want to come to this rally today, even though she believes in the message,” one protester shared. “She’s seeing what’s happening in the US, and she’s scared about what could happen to her.”
Several university security personnel were seen surveying George Square prior to the start of the rally. University security was seen manning entryways to the Law Library, Law School, and Old College reception, seemingly preventing a potential sit-in. Three police cars were also seen stationed around George Square, although their relevance to the protest is unclear.
Despite this, attendees noted that the protest was one of the largest rallies since the beginning of the year, with turnout reaching an estimated 250-300 individuals.
“The only way the uni will even consider change is if we speak up and show up in masses, like we are now,” said one student.
Another added that “we will make them hear us. We are not going anywhere.”
The protest remained peaceful despite an alleged violent confrontation. Eyewitnesses are believed to have seen a man, reportedly carrying a knife, attempting to disrupt the protest, even asking one attendee if “he wanted to get slashed.” He was swiftly pushed out of the rally by protestors. This incident is being investigated.
Both EUJPS and the University have been contacted for comment.
Image via Marie Sheets.