Recap of Day 2

Yesterday was the second day of our hunger strike and also one of the most successful and inspirational days we've had so far. The Harvard Dems organized a 1-day solidarity fast where nearly 25 people from their membership fasted. We also had a really good turn out to our 1pm rally. We chanted, sang songs, heard words from security officers, heard from strikers, and the leadership of the Dems delivered a letter to President Bok outlining why the Dems support the Stand For Security campaign. Before we closed our rally, we joined hands and circled Massachusetts Hall (the home of the President's office) while chanting and singing to make sure President Bok and all administrators know that we are strong, growing, and not going anywhere.

In light of recent campus debate, we decided to hold an open, community meeting yesterday afternoon where anyone who had questions/concerns/complaints about our tactics could come and talk to us directly. It was a mix of new faces, old faces, and security officers. One of the questions raised was whether or not the security officers support our hunger strike and the officers in attendance vehemently voiced their support. They reiterated the same statement they have been saying, "When we speak they don't listen, but when the students speak that is when they listen."

At 9pm, we had our daily vigil, this time organized by the Progressive Jewish Alliance (PJA). A group gathered at Hillel and walked and sang in the streets towards Memorial Church. A substantial amount of students, workers, and Hillel staff were there to share a bit about the campaign and hunger strike, but also to sing and dance together and bring day 2 of the strike to a close. I think the PJA vigil was one of the best and most fun events we've had so far and I really thank everyone who came out and a bigger thanks to those that organized it. We will have pictures to share soon.

On to day 3...