Toronto, ON – Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) students staged a walkout this afternoon following the circulation of a video showing a student being forcefully restrained and shoved to the ground by campus security during a September 19 event. The footage, described by many as “unsettling,” has sparked widespread outrage and renewed debate over campus safety, free expression, and the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The incident occurred during a public forum featuring federal minister of artificial intelligence and local MP Evan Solomon. In the video, a guard is seen lifting a student and shoving her to the ground as another officer helps restrain her while she cries out, “You’re hurting me.” The clip quickly spread online, prompting condemnation from students and advocacy groups.
At today’s rally, dozens of students and faculty gathered in solidarity with the student involved, demanding that TMU immediately dismiss the security guards, issue a public apology, and take stronger action to protect students’ rights to peaceful protest. “Today we are here to focus and be in solidarity with the student, who was brutalized for their support of Palestine,” said organizer Lila Bennett.
TMU administration acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, confirming both guards have been reassigned pending an investigation. “The video is unsettling and difficult to watch, and it understandably has raised questions and concerns from our community,” said Saeed Zolfaghari, TMU vice president of administration & operations. He noted the individual arrested was one of several asked to leave due to “disruptive behaviour” that may have violated the university’s community guidelines.
The protest also carried broader political demands, with demonstrators urging TMU to divest from companies linked to Israel and calling on Ottawa to do more to end the nearly two-year war in Gaza. While most protesters concealed their identities, some, like student Ayla Goodrow, stressed the importance of collective action: “Just seeing the number of people here today, it gives hope.”
At the same time, several Jewish students voiced concern about the tone of some chants. “Other people have committed violent acts using the same slogans,” said fourth-year student Coby Sadeh. “Be considerate of everyone in this community.”
The university has pledged to continue its review of the incident and take further measures if necessary. Until then, the video and the walkout have ensured the debate around safety, accountability, and solidarity at TMU remains front and centre.