A walkout was held Wednesday at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) to oppose the treatment of a reported pro-Palestinian protester by an on-campus security guard.
Video of the alleged incident that occurred last Friday shows the student allegedly being lifted and slammed to the floor, while another guard assists in pinning her down while she’s being handcuffed.
In a statement by Saeed Zolfaghari, Vice President of Administration and Operations, the university confirmed that the person arrested by TMU security was one of several individuals who were asked to leave the Dais Democracy Forum event by security due to “disruptive behaviour.”
Zolfaghari said the school was aware of the video, calling it “unsettling and difficult to watch.”
“It understandably has raised questions and concerns from our community,” read the statement. He added they are taking this matter seriously, and the actions taken are being reviewed.
The security officers involved, who were contracted by a third-party security organization, have been reassigned and “will not return to campus duties pending the outcome of the review,” according to Zolfaghari.
He added that Toronto police were contacted, and it is now a police matter.
Toronto police say it’s alleged the demonstrator was asked to leave by security and refused. At which point, security attempted to remove the demonstrator. Police then allege the demonstrator assaulted security.
The person was arrested and charged with assault.
The TMU student union also commented on the video of the incident, saying, “We unequivocally condemn what appears to be an egregious use of force, and stand by students’ right to free speech and dissent.”
“Toronto Metropolitan University belongs to students, and everyone deserves to feel safe on campus, including while exercising their democratic right to protest,” read their statement posted on social media.
A group called Students for Justice in Palestine at Toronto Metropolitan University organized the walkout that happened on Wednesday.