Understanding hate culture and rebuilding student groups
Friday 13-11-2020 - 09:00
Earlier this year, Durham SU were presented with evidence of hate culture within two of our student groups. Since deregistering those groups, we have been working through a process of understanding the extent of this culture, so that we can support the rebuilding of those groups with confidence that this unacceptable behaviour will not resurface.
We have now concluded the listening exercise with recent members and anyone with experiences of the Conservative Association and the Free Market Association. We would like to thank all those who have engaged with this process either through an appointment with us or through submitting online information for us to consider.
Based on the evidence we have received, it is clear that a hate culture had been prevalent within small sections of both groups, but that this was not far reaching amongst the wider memberships of these groups respectively.
We have therefore reached the conclusion that we are able to work with both groups to move forwards and look to support the registration of new Conservative and Free Market groups ready for the beginning of 2021. Both groups will work closely with Durham SU staff to understand how they can improve their inclusivity and eradicate any hate culture. This could include but is not limited to training around inclusivity, respect and diversity, as well as active bystander training, which would provide members with the confidence that these spaces remain inclusive and welcoming environments for all.
As with any new groups, we will offer support to recruit new members, and work through any democratic processes to provide greater transparency to new members.
Enabling these groups to set up with appropriate interventions and support in place will allow Durham students to engage in these groups’ discussions across a broad range of political perspectives for the collective benefit of our members.
