Screenshots of text messages obtained by mattbarter.ca reveal that Memorial University’s administration blindsided student protesters occupying the Arts and Administration Building in support of Palestine this past summer by initiating arrests.
On Friday, July 5, 2024, students visited the Environmental Health and Safety office around noon, seeking the report from the St. John’s Regional Fire Department. They were told they would need to speak with Director Barb Battcock, but she was unavailable. One of the group’s organizers, Sadie, then called Battcock’s listed work number and received a response via text message.
Battcock informed Sadie that she was unavailable for a phone call because she was in a meeting. Sadie replied, requesting details of the fire department’s report and stated that the group intended to follow the fire department’s directions but had not been informed of them. Sadie added that Memorial had “noted that some decisions had come through but didn’t indicate what they were.” She emphasized, “We wanted to make sure we were aware of the requirements before the weekend!”
After 4 pm, Battcock responded via text: “Memorial had received the report, findings are the same as discussed yesterday. We will be in contact next week.” However, as previously reported, the police report indicated that Memorial called the police at 3:36 pm —more than 30 minutes before Battcock’s response.
The Fire Prevention Inspection Report had a compliance date of July 11, 2024, yet Memorial told the media that the students’ removal was directly related to the fire department’s findings.
View the text messages below:
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.
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