University delegation in East Timor
By Pavel Slodowy
MELBOURNE — A meeting between East Timorese guerilla leader David Alex and a delegation of Melbourne students in February was filmed by University Students for East Timor (USET).
Six students spent 10 days in East Timor building links with resistance organisers in the towns and mountains. "We are trying to show that student activism is not something from the '60s or the '70s, but is alive in the '90s, and fighting for a free East Timor", said Samantha Cole, one of the delegates.
Alex emphasised that East Timorese students were organising "the mass of the East Timorese" in the towns. "The youth involved in the struggle are the heart of the struggle."
Alex appealed for more support from non-government organisations. "In East Timor the Red Cross can only help those who are captured. People need help with basics like food and clean water", he said.
He said that the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to two East Timorese activists was evidence of a growing international recognition of the struggle of all Timorese people. Alongside the celebrations, however, he reported a backlash. "The Indonesian military now suspects many more people to be involved with the freedom struggle."
On their return, the delegation held a public meeting. The group "plans to help build a strong movement of support for East Timor among students", Sam Maresh, a USET delegate, said.
Collections of books and fundraising have begun. It is hoped that scholarships can be established for East Timorese students.
"Students in Australia have an opportunity to help our neighbours, both here and overseas. We can organise material and political support for Timor, and play a role in looking after Timorese refugees in Australia", said David Littman, another delegation member.
USET can be contacted through the Melbourne University Student Union in Parkville.