I had already packed my blue HZ sweater to wear during the major protest against the cuts to higher education in Utrecht. Daphne Zerbib was set to march on Thursday, November 14, on behalf of the directors, alongside education administrators, students, and lecturers from across the country who are deeply concerned about the impact of the proposed measures.
They worry about the effects of the long-term student penalty on the accessibility of education and for students who need just a little extra time. They are concerned about the consequences of research funding cuts, such as the elimination of teacher grants, for research groups. And most of all, they are alarmed about the impact of measures targeting international students, which immediately put pressure on many of our programs, even for Dutch students.
Clearing the Agenda
Why clear the agenda entirely to join a protest? One reason is that it’s still possible to turn the tide. We’ve done it before, such as when we reversed the cuts to applied research. Another reason is the importance of highlighting how these cuts don’t just affect universities and the Randstad but also impact regional universities of applied sciences like ours.
During the mass protest, politicians and the press were expected to be out in full force. And, in my humble opinion, those politicians and journalists tend to focus a bit too much on the effects within and for the Randstad. A third reason is that participation in such a protest - especially by administrators and others who don’t typically take to the streets - clearly demonstrates the seriousness of the concerns. Together with the Zeeland lobby, we are working tirelessly behind the scenes to share our worries. A public signal only strengthens that effort.
Mass participation is crucial. The more people sign the petition at ‘voordetoekomstvannederland.nl’, take to the streets, and reach out to politicians and the press, the greater the chance of stopping these measures.
Come tot The Hague
As you know, that sweater stayed in my suitcase because the protest on November 14 was canceled. But every downside has an upside—the new protest is now scheduled for Monday, November 25, at 1:00 PM in The Hague, closer to Zeeland. It will take place the day before the debate on the education budget.
How great would it be to join with a ‘sea of HZ sweaters’ or even dressed as a train (like a Chinese dragon, moving together)? With a waving Zeeland flag, we can make it clear what these cuts mean for a region like ours.
I hope that many students and colleagues will join this time so that we can voice our concerns not just within HZ or Zeeland but in the very place where decisions about us are made: The Hague. My blue sweater is ready again, and all slogans are welcome!
Are you joining the protest on Monday? Let us know via this form. Perhaps we can arrange group transportation.