FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Vassar Hunger Strike Continues
December 11, 2009.
Poughkeepsie- After 3 days, the 3 students at Vassar College who began hunger striking at 11:59 pm on Tuesday, December 8th are still refusing to eat. The strike is gaining momentum. On Thursday, December 10th, another student joined the hunger strike, and two more students are participating in 48 hour solidarity fasts with them. The students are maintaining a constant presence in the front lobby of the Main Building at Vassar, with many community members stopping by and expressing support.
The hunger strikers will not eat until the administration ensures them that all 13 employees whose jobs are in danger will be gainfully employed in 2010. Though administration has previously stated that they will not cancel the layoffs despite the hunger strike, it seems likely that progress is being made.
This is the second time in eight months that Vassar students have a held hunger strike to protest the treatment of members of our community as interchangeable and disposable parts. Last spring, five students did not eat for five days in protest of the laying off of employees over the summer months. This resulted in a temporary Hardship Fund. This year, strikers have simplified their demands and believe that they can be met.
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