In a Gazette article published on June 3, 2024, titled Statement on convocation, Memorial University President Neil Bose addressed an incident that occurred during the Thursday, May 30 session. He stated that all members of the Memorial community who were invited to participate in the stage party, including student union leaders, were then served with expectations on Friday, May 31, including the prohibition of large signs on stage and no disruptions of the ceremony. Bose stated that after MUNSU representatives were given that information, they decided not to attend.
On June 4, 2024, the MUN Students’ Union released an Instagram video calling Bose’s statements in the Gazette article “concerning and misleading.” MUNSU Executive Director of Campaigns Alida Zedel stated that upon arriving at the first Convocation ceremony following the MUNSU protest, she was told that there was only one seat reserved between MUNSU and the Graduate Students’ Union (GSU). Historically, MUNSU has had several seats on stage alongside the GSU. Moments before the ceremony, Zedel was told that either MUNSU or GSU would have to go without representation on stage. Chancellor Earl Ludlow also warned Zedel that she was not to partake in any actions onstage. Campus Enforcement and Patrol Officers prevented any other MUNSU representatives from entering the building. Zedel decided to leave the event.
Matt Barter is a graduate of the Humanities and Social Sciences Faculty at Memorial University of Newfoundland, holding a degree in Political Science with a minor in Sociology. He enjoys reading thought-provoking articles, taking walks in nature, and volunteering in the community.
Leave a Reply