8.1 UC2024.06 Motion - Demonstrating Solidarity with Palestinian Students and Community for Aston

Demonstrating Solidarity with Palestinian Students and Community for Aston University encampment

The Motion calls for Aston University and Aston Students’ Union to show solidarity with Palestinian students
Proposed by: Batoul Jamal

Union Council Notes

1.The ongoing genocide of Palestinians by the State of Israel has deeply affected students and staff at Aston University. Many have expressed concerns about the lack of support and response from the Aston university regarding the crisis. It is crucial for the university to acknowledge and address these concerns to ensure the well-being and inclusivity of all members of the university community.

Union Council Believes

1.Aston University Should demonstrates its commitment to the well-being, inclusivity, and support of Palestinian students and staff. It sends a strong message of solidarity and reaffirms the university's dedication to fostering an environment that values diversity, empathy, and social justice.

Union Council Resolves

1.  Public Apology and Condemnation:

 - Aston University needs to Issue a public apology for not condemning the ongoing genocide of Palestinians by the State of Israel.

- Publicly condemn the Israeli occupation, blockade, and invasion of Palestine, and call for a ceasefire.

2. Transparency and Involvement in Financial Decisions:

   - Aston University needs to disclose all investments, research, commercial, and institutional partnerships by opening the books.

   -Aston University should Involve students and staff in future financial decisions to ensure transparency and accountability.

3. Termination of Partnerships:

   - Aston University needs terminate all investments, research, commercial, and institutional partnerships with the State of Israel and arms companies.

   - Release a public report detailing these terminations and the steps taken.

4.  Immediate Divestment:

 - Divest immediately from all companies and institutions with ties to the State of Israel, aligning with Aston's ethical investment policy

5. Support for Gaza's Educational Infrastructure:

   - Pledge to contribute to the reconstruction of educational infrastructure and universities in Gaza.

6. Scholarships and Financial Support:

   -Aston university needs to provide full scholarships and financial support to students who are Palestinian nationals.

   - Publicly announce these scholarships to ensure transparency and accessibility.

7.Protection of Protest Rights:

   - Refrain from taking disciplinary action against students or staff who make these demands through encampments or protests.

Conclusion: By adopting these measures, Aston University and the Student Union demonstrate a united commitment to ethical investment practices, solidarity with Palestine, and support for affected students and staff. This collaborative effort upholds the values of transparency, accountability, and social responsibility within the university community.