Group Of OU Students Protest University's Handling Of Pandemic

A group of students gathered Thursday to protest how the University of Oklahoma has handled the pandemic.

With a megaphone and a list of twelve demands, a few students gave speeches on the steps of Evans Hall.

“We’re hoping to meet with administration. We realize some of these we may have to compromise to an extent on, but we’re all hoping we can get some of these to some extent,” sophomore Katheryn Powers said.

The students demand that the university transition the majority of learning to online.

They’re asking the school to provide twice weekly testing for those on campus.

There were also numerous demands addressing the budget, furloughs, and jobs; it’s all in a petition the group is circulating.

“We want time and a half hazard pay for everyone who is required to stay because they are taking on a greater hazard by working,” junior Jake Allen said.

Demonstrators said they encouraged their fellow protesters to wear masks and brought disinfectant wipes to the event.

The group said this is their first attempt to meet with administration regarding their demands.

In response, a university spokesperson sent the following statement to News 9:

“Since the beginning of the pandemic, OU has made safety its top priority, enacting a range of protocols designed to create a safe environment. All decisions made are science-based and under the primary guidance of our OU Chief COVID Officer, Dr. Dale Bratzler. As we have since March, we will prioritize safety, remain responsive to the changing landscape, and communicate often with the OU community.”