The University of Windsor has been added to the list of postsecondary schools where events calling attention to the war in Gaza are being recognized.
U of W's Palestinian Solidarity Group has begun a "Liberation Zone" on campus near Dillon Hall.
According to a social media post, the Liberation Zone will include a schedule of activities and speakers throughout the day on Thursday, including a series of "teach-ins", and a performance to end the program in the evening.
"As no universities remain in Gaza from being destroyed by Israeli Occupation Forces, we demand our institutions end their complicity in the genocide in Palestine," read the Instagram post. "We will not stand idly. Regardless of fear-mongering and repression tactics by administration, it is our duty as students to demand an end to our institutions’ complicity."
The group's demands are similar to those put before administrations at other schools, and they include divesting from companies doing business with the Israeli military, issuing a statement condemning violence in Gaza, and ensuring safety for all students on campus.
A series of student protests and "Liberation Zones" have been taking place at universities across Canada, including Western University in London, McGill, Toronto Metropolitan, the University of Toronto, and others.
Hamas launched an attack on Israel in October 2023 that killed approximately 1,400 Isrealis. That resulted in a full offensive by the Israeli military. According to the United Nations, over 34,000 Palestinians have died in Gaza.
Campus police did not immediately respond to a request from WindsorNewsToday.ca for additional information. Windsor police referred an inquiry to U of W when contacted.
U of W's Office of Public Affairs and Communications responded Thursday afternoon.
"The University of Windsor is aware of a peaceful demonstration on campus and is working to ensure well-being, learning, and safety," their statement read. "The University upholds freedom of expression and freedom of peaceful assembly, aligning with our academic mission and commitment to health and safety. The University prioritizes a campus culture that fosters the sharing of diverse perspectives and critical thinking. We encourage all members of the University community to engage with one another respectfully and empathetically at all times."