Student Protest Erupts at TMU

A fierce wave of student activism surged at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) as students organized a significant walkout in response to alarming treatment of a pro-Palestinian protestor by on-campus security.

Disturbing Incident Caught on Video

Footage from last Friday's confrontation reveals a troubling scene where a student was reportedly lifted and forcibly slammed to the ground by an aggressive security guard, while another guard helped restrain her during the handcuffing process.

University Responds to Outrage

TMU's Vice President of Administration and Operations, Saeed Zolfaghari, released a statement acknowledging the distressing nature of the video, which he described as "unsettling and difficult to watch." He emphasized that the incident has understandably sparked significant concern within the university community.

Security Actions Under Scrutiny

Zolfaghari confirmed that the student was among those asked to leave the Dais Democracy Forum due to "disruptive behavior." However, he reassured the community that a thorough review of the incident is underway. The involved security officers, contracted externally, have been temporarily reassigned and will not be returning to campus duties during the investigation.

Police Involvement and Ongoing Investigation

Toronto police have been notified and are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Union Stands in Solidarity with Students

The TMU Student Union echoed the community's outrage, unequivocally condemning what they termed as "an egregious use of force" and reaffirming their commitment to protecting students' rights to free expression. Their social media statement stressed, "Toronto Metropolitan University belongs to students, and everyone deserves to feel safe on campus, including while exercising their democratic right to protest."

A Call to Action

Students for Justice in Palestine at TMU have organized this pivotal walkout, scheduled for Wednesday at 1:30 p.m., as they demand justice and accountability for the unjust treatment of their fellow protestor.