After nearly three weeks in the Brunei Suite, we have decided that the SOAS occupation has almost reached the end of its current stage.
During our time in occupation, the political landscape in Britain has changed dramatically. Our occupation has triggered a national wave of student occupations that have been successful in building a united student movement against fees, cuts and the abolition of EMA.
At SOAS, we have gained the support of a huge number of staff and students, and created a strong sense of a community committed to working together on the issues that face us all. Lectures, discussions and entertainment have been widely attended and have made the occupation a viable space for action and learning.
This occupation has shown itself to be a legitimate form of protest that is both effective and constructive. Management has in effect recognised this by failing to enforce a misguided school policy.
Yesterday’s vote, in which the government’s majority was reduced by three quarters, reflects the crisis that we have contributed to creating for this government. The vote signals the beginning of our struggle, not the end. We will push on to campaign for an open, equal and diverse education system in the same spirit as has been the nature of the occupation so far. Open and inclusive meetings, actions and protests, demanding an engaged and vibrant education for everyone, are under way.
We encourage students and staff to inaugurate mass departmental/faculty meetings to discuss our education together, and to join with the future activities of the occupiers.
To wrap up proceedings in the Brunei Suite, we hereby invite you to:
OCCUPATION LEAVING RALLY
Monday 12.30pm (in Brunei Suite)
Leaving at 1pm sharp
Come along and share your experiences, show your support, and prepare for the next step!
