Tuesday 06-08-2024 - 13:17

Over the past week, we've seen fascists exploit grief for their own inexcusable violence. This openly far-right, white-supremacist, Islamophobic hate is not a protest. It's a pogrom. Across the country, these racists have violated our cities and made people unsafe.

Durham SU sends our love and solidarity to all the communities affected, including to those in Sunderland and Teesside, who were attacked during riots there.

This country has a legacy of demonising those it does not see as 'English'. Racist and anti-migrant language has contributed to this violence, in the press, on social media and through government policy. Those responsible must be held accountable. Those with power must act.

We can all act ourselves, embodying our shared values of care, community and equality. I'd encourage you to offer support at your local mosque or community space and, if you feel able, join anti-fascist demonstrations across the country who would welcome another voice. Because, above all, we must speak out against fascism. We must stand against it.

Fascism is a plague that thrives in darkness, and it can go unchecked no longer. Throughout history, the anti-fascist movement has been bound by a pledge: "¡No pasarán!" Together, we must stand firm and say it again now.

 

Where to find support:
If you need to report an incident, you can do so using the SafeZone app.

The SafeZone app enables you to send an emergency alert if anyone is in danger. The app is free to download.

As a user, you will be directly connected to the University security team, who will find and assist you as quickly as possible when an emergency alert is issued.

Off-campus, SafeZone will connect you directly to the emergency services.

On campus, You can also contact University Security directly at +44 (0)191 334 2222.

 

We encourage the reporting of any criminal matters promptly to the Police and that you notify the University.

Support can also be accessed via your college support, the Student Support Hub or Durham SU's ASK service.

Support can also be accessed via the Durham People of Colour Association and Durham Islamic Society.

If you do attend any demonstrations, stay safe and look after each other.
 

The University will circulate further guidance regarding support, updates and warnings.