Over the past week, we've seen a horrifying escalation of violence across the UK.
BCUSU are appauled to see such acts of racism, Islamophobia and xenophobia which followed the tragic murder of three children in Southport on 29th July.
The acts take attention away from the tragedy and are no excuse for the destruction of homes, businesses, and violence across UK towns and cities. We condemn the acts of racism, Islamophobia, xenophobia that have caused unrest over the past week.
At BCU and BCUSU, we value the diverse backgrounds of all our students and our multicultural community. We understand that our community may not feel safe in Birmingham right now, and the threat of riots and violence in our city is worrying. We want to offer support and guidance to all students which may be impacted and those fearful as police presence increases around the City Centre.
The escalation of events in the past week have been aggravated by misinformation across social media and harmful rhetoric from public figures which enable xenophobic and islamophobic narratives across the general population. We want to assure you that this is not a reflection of our community at university and we are horrified by the events which have unfolded.
What is racism?
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What is Islamophobia?
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What is xenophobia?
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What is terrorism?
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Ideas or theories of superiority of one race or group of persons of one colour or ethnic origin. (United Nations)
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Islamophobia is a type of racism that targets expressions of Muslimness or perceived Muslimness. (Muslim Council of Britain)
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Attitudes, prejudices and behaviour that reject, exclude and often vilify persons, based on the perception that they are outsiders or foreigners to the community, society or national identity. (European Commission)
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The use or threat of serious violence to a person, property, designed to influence the government, or to intimidate the public, creating a serious risk to health and safety of the public. (Crown Prosecution Service)
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Actions to respond:
Sign or Create Petitions
Petitions are an effective way of showing that a number of people support a cause. Whether you sign an existing petition or create a new one, this method demonstrates collective concern and can compel university authorities to take notice and act.
Write to your MP
You can write to your local Member of Parliament to express your feelings about events and ask them to take action to UK Government
Support each other and spread awareness
Social media is a powerful tool for raising awareness and generating support. However, it’s important to anticipate negative responses when you post on public platforms. Provide clear information, and stay focused on your message to maintain credibility and support.
Check in with friends and family who may by affected by events in their area or by witnessing events unfold online.
Protest when necessary
When other methods fail, protests can be a powerful way to demand attention and action.
Protests should be well-organised, peaceful, and clearly communicate the demands. Consider the potential impact, legal implications, and safety of participants before starting or joining a protest. If you are considering starting a protest, let us know and we will discuss safe ways to support you!
Accessing support at university
Your safety and wellbeing are both a priority for BCU and BCUSU. We’re working with BCU to ensure all campuses remain as safe and respectable environments for all students.
"Our priority is to ensure that all students feel safe and supported. BCUSU will always be there to help guide students impacted by rioting, protesting, or general unrest to the right source of support – seek out advice if that’s what you need, and most importantly, please do what you can to stay safe"- Luke McCombe, BCUSU President
University updates
BCU will be updating key information on iCity, including campus building closures, opening times and guidance, with updates starting from Monday 5th August. Check your student email too for urgent updates.
BCU's Mental Health and Wellbeing Team
The team is available for appointments via iCity. Also contactable through at SA.wellbeing@bcu.ac.uk or on 0121 331 5188.
Chaplaincy
BCU's Chaplain service is available for spiritual and religious support. There are dedicated Faith Spaces on campus too.
Report and Support
Log incidents of harassment, bullying, sexual assault/misconduct, discrimination and hate crime using the Report and Support. If you witness or are a victim of antisemitism or islamophobia, please report it.
BCU Security
If you're on campus and need help, you can contact BCU Security at 0121 331 6969. Call 999 in an emergency.
BCUSU Reception
Come speak with us at City South (SCT041), open 9am-4pm and Curzon (first floor), open 9am-4:30pm. Or contact us online!
BCUSU Advice Team
Information on claiming Extenuating Circumstances if your studies have been impacted by events. If you need help with your claim, contact our Advice Team by logging an enquiry.
Other support services (national and local)