Those who have relocated their residence to the lawn of Johnson Hall have created a new culture on campus. While they are waiting for answers from University President Dave Frohnmayer, protesters are keeping themselves busy by discussing issues, going to classes and playing music.
One camper, sophomore sociology major Terra Connors, said Wednesday of the previous evening’s camp-in, “it was freezing cold.”
Despite the cold, she said the discussions stayed focused and protesters who were not as familiar with the issues were brought up to speed.
During the lull between classes, campers’ and supporters’ conversations ranged from causes of allergies in the Willamette Valley to majors in school. Through day three of the protest, students continued to write messages in sidewalk chalk, the largest of which simply reads “solidarity” and is about 20 feet long. Supporters also played drums and sang songs to keep up group morale.
Other students said they think the protest is distracting and interrupts classes.
“I think it gets in the way of what we’re here for — we’re here to get an education,” said Sam Dunn, a junior pre-journalism major.
Chet Fiedler, a junior humanities major, said he also disagrees with the protest.
“Since when can you camp on campus?” he said. “I tried before and I wasn’t allowed.”
Matt Dyste, whose Johnson Hall office window faces the occupiers’ snack section, said the protesters are not a bother to him.
“I think they have a cause they believe in, and I admire that,” he said.
Adam Blair, a senior majoring in sociology, said the occupying tactic is one that has worked in other social movements.
“It’s really powerful,” he said. Blair plans to camp as long as the protest continues and the experience has been empowering.
“The discussions have been amazing,” he said.
Nick Larson, however, said he does not blame Frohnmayer for not signing because of the tactics protesters are using.
“It doesn’t seem effective to me,” said Larson, a senior majoring in political science. “The issues involving workers’ rights should be left to the company itself and not to outsiders. Unless they are major stockholders in the company, they should keep to themselves.”
Pat Fields, a sophomore majoring in political science, also disagrees with the tactic.
“I think it could be done better,” he said.
Fields said students should approach the situation more professionally to get better results.
University executive assistant president Dave Hubin said there is a feeling within the administration that the students are highlighting an issue that is important to all.
“I don’t sense any tension,” he said. “The students have been respectful.”
Whether all students agree with the tactics, the protesters plan to stay at Johnson Hall until Frohnmayer signs on with the WRC.
Meanwhile, campers expect the colony of tents, which they are calling the “occupation zone,” to grow.