Statement of University of Kent Occupation

We the Kent occupation and those that stand by us...

On Wednesday the 8th of December The Senate building of the University of Kent in Canterbury was occupied by students in peaceful protest. This is our stand against the blow dealt to institutes of Higher Education in the United Kingdom by unjust political agenda.

The media has so far demonized those that have taken to the cause but we stand firm in an entirely peaceful direct action, uniting staff and student alike.
Our aims, akin to our brothers and sisters in other occupations, are as follows :-
We wish to open the lines of communication between those like us whether their occupation continues, their protest has been silenced or they simply have found no venue to speak.

To convince our senior members of staff to stand alongside us in a plea for an accessible education for future generations and job safety for academic & support staff.

We wish for a policy of open-books, allowing the possibility of constructive discussion amongst all the available minds within institutions in order to assist in their budget concerns.

To remind our local authority and government across the country that their positions are by grace of the people and so should listen when they speak.

To beseech our Vice Chancellor to retract herself as a signatory in the letter addressed to the Telegraph on December 8th declaring herself in support of the abominable cuts. We ask that she also apologise to the students and staff, whose views that she neglected in her actions

To request the respect of our human and political right to protest, in an unthreatening manner, without oppressive hindrance or victimisation to our students or staff.

To allow us access to basic amenities within the occupied building to maintain health and well-being amongst the students.

To support those in further education in their battle, alongside ours, to maintain funding which allows them to pursue their education freely.

Should these cuts be allowed to come to pass then the concept of a glass ceiling will become all too much a reality for many.
Education is a basic civil right, for all, not some.

For those whose faith is waning, remember: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” - Margaret Mead

You can follow the occupation at the University of Kent here.