The takeover was peaceful and without any police intervention. All entrances were quickly secured and the students were able to hold the building for the next eighteen hours. During the occupation one entrance at the top of the stairs on the third floor was opened at times to admit supporters and reporters deemed friendly.

This Indymedia reporter was granted access on the condition of no photographs or video on the inside of the building. Audio interviews with students were allowed. Inside the hall a diverse group of students were to be found, some sleeping, some gathered in discussions, others simply sharing food and enjoying each others company.

The students had declared the occupation to be a leaderless action and no spokesperson or media relations person had been designated. Those guarding the door told me that I was free to talk anyone who chose to speak with me. (Edited mp3 files from these interviews to follow in a separate article.)

The occupation ended Thursday evening when students by their own decision peacefully left the building in response to fire and life safety issues raised by the fire marshal. There were no arrests or conflicts with police during the de-occupation.

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This is the statement handed out by supporters outside the hall.

The online statement is much the same that but with an additional closing paragraph.