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‘It’s been really inspiring to see’: Anthropology library sit-in captures student interest

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WILLIAM YAU | STAFF

As the Anthropology Library sit-in continues, awareness among both undergraduate and graduate students has risen and increased support for the library to remain open.

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MAY 02, 2023

Awareness among campus students about the sit-in in the Anthropology Library is growing as the movement gains traction.

According to anthropology doctoral candidate Jesús Gutiérrez, who works as the library’s research guide, the sit-in has grown since April 24, with “people showing up from all parts of campus.” He noted seeing graduate students from all departments as well as undergraduates from a variety of majors at the sit-in.

“I see most of the people who are coming in are undergraduates,” Gutiérrez said. “We had a meeting with Jeffrey MacKie-Mason … many of the students who spoke to him were undergraduates who were angry.”

MacKie-Mason, the university librarian, gave a speech addressing the library shutdowns Friday, where he responded to questions posed by protestors.

The sit-in entered its 10th day on Monday. Alongside the occupation, protestors have been holding marches and coming into classes to talk about the Anthropology Library.

Campus sophomore Lindsey Duncan said she watched a group of protestors for the library pass through Sproul Plaza while she was tabling.

“The struggle to save the Anthropology Library is now seen by stakeholders as a pressure point for multiple constituents,” Gutiérrez said. “For the most part, we’ve been really growing and people’s dedication and energy — it’s been really inspiring to see.”

Duncan also noted that the group held signs and chanted, adding that some of the protestors came into one of her classes to talk about the Anthropology Library. After learning about the sit-in and the message of those protesting to keep the library, she said she supported their movement and its message.

Campus sophomore and ASUC senator-elect Amyrah Doty has also been vocal in her support of the library.

“I have used the Anthropology Library many times to study,” Doty said at a press conference held from the library Monday, noting her use of the library. ”I was here physically reading the ethnographies from 1 to 5 p.m. every single day.”

Coverage of the sit-in will be ongoing as the occupation continues.

Contact Ria Raniwala at 

LAST UPDATED

MAY 02, 2023