How can you address racism? We can all commit to educating ourselves on race and racism, in all of its forms. There are many websites, texts, videos and podcasts – you can find some in Further Reading & Resources section – which can help us do this. And we can listen to the Black and Minority Ethnic members of our own communities about their experiences, and the actions which would make them feel welcome, valued and safe. Once we are able to identify forms of racism, including microaggressions, we can commit to being active bystanders when we witness it. If you feel comfortable and safe to do so, you can challenge racism by explaining the negative impact someone’s comments or actions could have and ask them to behave differently in the future. You can report racism via the Students’ Association’s Advice Place or the University’s Complaints procedure. If you witness or experience racism outside of the University then you can report it to the Police by calling 999 in an emergency or 101 if it is non-urgent. The Advice Place can also pass reports on to the Police if you were prefer not to speak with them directly. The Students’ Association’s Advice Place You can find more resources to help you support diversity and inclusion in the What Can I Do? Section and in counteracting microaggressions. Addressing structural and systemic racism Following the death of George Floyd, the University made a number of commitments. Statement by the University on George Floyd. In 2018/19, the University also conducted a review of support for Black and Minority Ethnic students. Thematic Review 2018-19: Black and Minority Ethnic Students The Students’ Association’s Sabbatical Officers have released several statements and published six commitments, echoing the asks of their Black and Minority Ethnic Officer . EUSA Website, Black Lives Matter You and staff have a role to play in ensuring the University is meeting its commitments and holding it accountable. You can also approach other groups and organisations you are a part of and ask them what steps they are taking to address racism. You can find more resources to help you support diversity and inclusion in the What Can I Do? Section and in counteracting microaggressions. This article was published on 2024-03-06
