Student Activism: The Protest in Sir George Williams University

A student protest is when students take action, often on university campuses, to speak out or stand up for a cause they care about. As we look through the history, some of the earliest student protests activity were done in the University of Oxford during the year of 1209 and the University of Paris during the year of 1229. What we are about to discuss is regarding the protest done in Sir George Williams University during January 29 until February 11 in 1969.

In 1969, students at Sir George Williams University took over a computer lab on the ninth floor to protest how their school ignored and dismissed complaints of racism made by Black and Caribbean students. On february 11, after talks broke down, the university called the police, leading to the arrest of 97 students in total. The event had lasting effects on the students’ mental, physical, and social well-being. The student protest itself was a key moment for Black activism, bringing global attention to Black identity in Canada and shining a light on racism within institutions that often went unnoticed. 

Here is a brief history background into the happening of the conflict itself. Black communities have a long, complex history in Montreal, dating back to colonial New France in the 17th century when Black and Indigenous people were enslaved through the transatlantic slave trade. Even after slavery was abolished in 1834, Black Montrealers faced racism, discrimination, and limited job opportunities, especially in industries like railroads. Despite these challenges, they built strong community organizations to support their well-being and fight for better living conditions. Throughout the 20th century, discriminatory immigration policies limited the arrival of Black immigrants, particularly from the Caribbean, though some women were recruited for caregiving jobs. The legacy of these policies continued to affect Black communities, but the arrival of more Caribbean students in the 1960s helped shape a growing presence and activism in Montreal. The protest that was done by these students was inspired by the civil rights and Black power movements in the United States, highlighting Canada’s own deep-rooted issues with institutional racism. 

Nowadays, student protests are still active and found in many different areas of the globe. And they have always been a powerful way for young people to stand up for what they believe in. Whether fighting against racism or injustice, these movements have sparked change and shaped society. These students bring new perspectives from fresh eyes and a fearless drive to challenge the status quo. Through these activism events, they remind us that standing up and speaking out can truly make a difference.

-By Nasya