Protesters set up encampment at University of Winnipeg campus

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Protesters have set up a protest encampment in front of the University of Winnipeg’s downtown campus to show solidarity with Palestinians.

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More than a dozen tents could be seen on the front lawn in front of the school Saturday morning. Protesters began setting up on Friday.

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The University of Winnipeg said in a statement on its website that the school’s security team is monitoring the situation. Spring classes and other campus activities are continuing as scheduled.

“The University’s Security Services Team is monitoring the situation carefully to ensure everyone remains safe,” said the university in a statement on its website. “Spring term classes and other campus activities have not been interrupted.

The University respects the right to peaceful protest and assembly within the bounds of law and UWinnipeg policies. Members of our campus community are free to protest on campus, but camping is not allowed. Setting up tents, temporary structures, or overnight encampments on UWinnipeg property without approval from the University is prohibited.”

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In the statement the university referred to its Respectful Work and Learning Environment Policy which requires that everyone on campus, including visitors, conduct themselves in a way that allows all members of our community to work and study in an environment free from harassment and discrimination.

“Our top priority is to ensure that students, faculty, and staff can continue teaching, learning, and research activities in a safe and respectful campus environment. Protesters who are not students, faculty, or staff will not be permitted access to University buildings. Students, faculty, and staff attending campus for classes or other University activities should bring their UWinnipeg ID with them to ensure they can access buildings as needed.”

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A similar encampment was set up on Tuesday at the University of Manitoba Duckworth Quadrangle. Originally scheduled for three days, the encampment was still there Saturday.

An All Out For Palestine rally in support of the residents of Rafah in Gaza was held Saturday at the University of Manitoba on the campus near the protest encampment. The rally prompted the cancellation of the Science Rendezvous event scheduled at the university due to concerns over access to the university and available parking.

Meanwhile, a multi-faith Gaza Ceasefire Pilgrimage was held in Brandon, organized by the Knox United Church of Brandon.

gdawkins@postmedia.com

X: @SunGlenDawkins

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