
South Asian Network Rallies In Solidarity With Bangladeshi Student Protesters
India-West Staff Reporter
ARTESIA, CA — In a show of solidarity, the South Asian Network (SAN) organized a protest on July 22 to support students in Bangladesh who have been demonstrating against an unfair government-imposed job quota system.
The SAN protest, held in Los Angeles, began at Fairfax Ave and W 5th Street, drawing attention with chants such as “Protect Student Rights” and “From Los Angeles to Dhaka, Long Live the Student Revolution.” Participants included SAN staff, community members, and others affected by the crisis in Bangladesh. The protest aimed to amplify the voices of those fighting for a fair and equitable education system in Bangladesh.
Despite the Bangladesh Supreme Court’s recent decision to scale back the quota system, the government’s heavy-handed response to the protests has left a deep impact. The SAN protest highlighted several demands: an end to the killing of students, respect for the right to protest, restoration of internet connectivity, and accountability for those responsible for the violence.
SAN’s Executive Director, Shakeel Syed, emphasized the emotional toll on the Bangladeshi community in Los Angeles, many of whom are unable to contact their families due to the internet blackout. “It pains me to watch the brutal violence unleashed upon the students advocating for equity in Bangladesh,” Syed said. “SAN stands with the Bangladeshi students and community members until their demands are met and beyond.”
The protest concluded with heartfelt testimonies from community members, reflecting the deep concern and solidarity felt by the Bangladeshi diaspora.