This is Part 1 of a multi-part series that tells the whole story behind the lawsuit activists have launched against the University of Calgary and the Calgary Police in response to a violent encampment eviction back in May 2024.

We start with Dr. Raheleh Tarani's compelling story; a mother from Iran who was on campus to support her son, and to speak up against what is happening in Gaza. Holding hands, singing, and then violently tossed to the ground, pinned and arrested.

She talks about her shock, and the profound impact that night has had on her. But she also talks about how she is reclaiming her power by taking the Police who did this, and the University who called them, to court.

Next UP: Part 2 - Another Plaintiff, Wesam Cooley, was the unofficial Police Liaison for the encampment that night. Hear his unique perspective on Monday May 25th.

Hosted and Produced by: Jessa McLean and Santiago Helou Quintero

Call to Action: DONATE TO THE LEGAL FUND for the Plaintiffs

Related Episodes:

• Student Suppression by Any Means with Jeremy Appel (March 2025)
• Student Encampments (May 2024) a look at their demands for divestment, the responses from the Universities, the police and the public.

More Resources:

• City of Calgary and University of Calgary sued by demonstrators - via DrugDataDecoded
• Statement of Claim - Court Filing 2601 08209 - May 4, 2026
• Calgary Police, City of Calgary and University of Calgary sued by demonstrators for excessive force, breach of rights in 2024

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