Key Takeaways:
- Universities often have large financial investments that aren’t transparent to students.
- Students and faculty are protesting because these investments may support unethical practices, such as selling weapons used in conflict zones.
- A new documentary, The Encampments, highlights student activism, especially at Columbia University.
- The film shows solidarity among diverse groups and features a student facing deportation.
- The documentary serves as a call to action, encouraging viewers to organize and make a difference.
Universities as Businesses
Imagine your school as a big business, managing millions or even billions of dollars. This is the reality for many universities, whose financial dealings are often kept under wraps. Students don’t usually get to know where this money is invested, and sometimes, these investments can be in companies involved in controversial activities, like selling weapons.
The Spark That Changed Everything
After the conflict in Gaza escalated, students realized they needed to act. At Columbia University, frustrated students took over the campus quad to demand change. They were tired of their school’s investments possibly supporting actions they strongly opposed, and they wanted transparency and ethical accountability.
Inside ‘The Encampments’ Documentary
The Encampments captures this student movement, but it’s more than just a campus story. The film includes historical footage of Palestinian displacement and shows how students, teachers, and staff across America are reacting to current events. It highlights the unity among students from different backgrounds, all fighting for what they believe is right.
A standout figure is Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian student who is now facing deportation. The film shares his story, showing his calm yet powerful stance against injustice. His situation reflects broader issues and inspires others to take action.
A Call to Action
While The Encampments is informative, it’s also a call to action. The film reminds viewers that change doesn’t happen just by watching; it requires organizing and engaging. The message is clear: get involved, whether through protests, petitions, or spreading awareness.
In conclusion, universities can be powerful institutions, but their actions have real-world consequences. The Encampments showcases the strength of student activism and reminds us all that our voices can make a difference. So, what will you do?