We are appalled by the recent far-right extremist riots that have caused fear and destruction across the country.
We are appalled by the recent far-right extremist riots that have caused fear and destruction across the country.
These riots were sparked by deliberate Islamophobic and racist misinformation that was spread online by far-right extremists, following the deadly attack in Southport on the 29th of July.
The violent attacks towards ethnic minority groups, Muslims, and immigrants over the past few days have been disgusting and horrifying to witness. The destruction of many homes, businesses, and places of worship across the country is abhorrent and it is clearly intended to terrorise and intimidate these groups. We condemn all acts of Islamophobia and racism, and we call upon the Government to take firm actions on those who incite hatred and terror against minority groups.
We know that many of you are hurting and are afraid. As we are an Executive Officer team who are all either immigrants or children of immigrants, as well as being Queen Mary Students’ Union’s first all-Muslim officer team, these fears strike close to home for each of us and our families too.
The riots and attacks exploited by the far-right extremists have directed the country’s attention away from the tragic murder of three children and many more who were injured. We want to express our deepest condolences to the victims, their families, and all those affected.
In these dark times, it is important that we remember that there is more that brings us together than divides us, and we have seen this with the displays of unity in communities across the nation.
We are working with the University to ensure that appropriate security measures are in place to protect you and our campuses.
There is a zero-tolerance approach to racism and Islamophobia in our spaces, and we urge you to reach out to the University's Report and Support service if you experience or witness this. If you need assistance with this, you can contact the Students’ Union.
Your Students’ Union is here for you. We wholeheartedly value the diversity in every single one of our students and staff members and we will do our utmost to protect it. Stay safe and look out for each other.
From your Executive Officers,
Tahmid, Nabihah, Al-Habib, Rahma, Jovani and Hassam
Help and Support
If you have experienced bullying, harassment, or any other hate incidents, report it to the Queen Mary Report and Support service.
If you would like mental health and well-being support, please contact the University's Advice & Counselling Service.
If you are struggling with deadlines, we recommend applying for extenuating circumstances and to get support here.