On June 21, the Sydney University Muslim Students Association (SUMSA) hosted a press conference on “The Future of the Encampment” in front of the Quadrangle lawns, where the Gaza solidarity encampment previously stood.
The conference began at 6:28pm.
President of SUMSA Abdullah opened with a reflection: “55 days ago we came to the University with a resolve to set up camp to represent Muslim support for the Palestinian cause”.
He spoke about interferences from Zionist agitators, unsupportive police and security guards, and the attacks from mainstream media delegitimising their cause during their encampment involvement.
Abdullah then affirmed that the Muslim part of the encampment was the largest and longest-lasting part of the protest.
“It has allowed us to reconnect with Islamic ideals and each other,” he reflected.
He claimed that the dealings with University Management were successful, explaining how the University is beholden to publicly disclose its ties to Israel, take steps to divest, and support academics in Palestine with expanded funding. Further, he announced that SUMSA is working with the University on an inaugural “Experience Palestine” program.
He explained that representatives from SUMSA will meet with Management once a month to discuss their demands and continue lobbying efforts, maintaining that they will hold Management to account. Regardless, he expressed a belief that Management would engage with them in good faith to fight for Palestinian liberation.
This press conference officially heralded the end of SUMSA’s section of the encampment.
Abdullah then responded to questions from two reporters from The Australian, particularly regarding whether or not there would be a re-encampment. He clarified that they would consider re-encampment if it “was an effective way” to protest after it is seen if the six week break to re-energise the movement and mobilise is sufficient or not.
Honi understands that the University of Sydney has committed to engaging in an Experience Palestine unit, which requires establishing ties with Palestinian academics and the West Bank.
A University Spokesperson declined to comment on the deal.
UPDATE as of June 22: SUMSA released a statement to their social media, detailing their points made in the press conference, as well as the future of their activist efforts for Palestine.
