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A pro-Palestinian encampment erected at the downtown campus of McGill University awoke Monday to its second week of occupation no closer to compelling the institution to divest from its interests in Israel.
The encampment, comprised of dozens of tents, appeared more prepared to remain in place for the long term than it did when it began April 27.
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Protesters have adapted to the muddy conditions, creating walkways with wooden palettes and establishing a drainage system to keep them from being flooded out.
Montreal police are keeping the site under surveillance, but have made it clear any intervention will be contingent on the safety of the public or the demonstrators being threatened.
Organizers say the protesters have everything they need to continue their encampment, including food, water, toilets, a library and a medical tent staffed with trained personnel. There are also community and prayer spaces and a “care tent” to offer quiet time or support for people with mental health concerns. Members of the local community have stepped up to offer three meals a day.
Quebec Premier François Legault last week called for the camp to be dismantled. McGill University’s administration has offered to meet with the protesters to discuss their demands on the condition they abandon the encampment, an offer protesters have refused.
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