A message of solidarity and support to our community during the nationwide riots

As the Student Executive at Leeds University Union, we are proud to be a part of a diverse and inclusive Leeds community, and we are horrified by the violent riots we have seen take place across the UK.

Violence in any form is unacceptable, and it is particularly distressing when it is fuelled by hate and prejudice. As a Students’ Union, we firmly stand against all forms of racism, discrimination, Islamophobia and violence. The scenes we have seen unfold are carried out by a minority of individuals, emboldened by false narratives, with mosques and places of refuge for asylum seekers being specifically targeted.

We know that many of our students will be affected by the events that have taken place. As your Student Executive, we are here for you and can provide support for our student community. We want you to feel valued and safe, and to know that you belong here as part of our vibrant, diverse and active community. It has been incredibly heartening to see communities coming together in solidarity with those being targeted, and against hate. LUU strives to be an actively anti-racist organisation – you can read more about our commitments to this goal here, and speak to us as your Exec Team about it.

LUU’s Help and Support team are available to provide help and support to all our students.

We reiterate that hate speech or discrimination of any kind is unacceptable, and we urge any instances of these to be reported via the University’s Harassment and Misconduct team. You can also submit a report anonymously. Downloading the Safe Zone App can also be a useful tool for important and accurate safety updates.

Signed:

Amara Relf, Equality & Liberation Officer

Felix Ejessu, International & Postgraduate Officer

Freshta Amiry, Wellbeing Officer

Lucy Hart, Union Affairs & Communications Officer

Lydia Shale, Activities & Opportunities Officer

Shivani Gug, Education Officer