Received from: National Education Union, UCU
Congress notes:
i. the tragic death of UCU member Professor Jason Arday following sustained racist targeting, harassment and humiliation
ii. that far-right politics and the normalisation of racism are growing
iii. that Black staff and students continue to experience institutional racism, discrimination and inequality across higher education.
Congress believes that:
a. the treatment of Professor Arday is a product of institutional and systemic racism
b. the far right uses division to distract from society’s real problems – the cost-of-living crisis, pay, housing and underfunded public services
c. government and employers have a responsibility to tackle racism and the growth of the far right
d. trade unions have a unique role in defending their members, challenging far-right politics and building solidarity.
Congress resolves to:
1. send condolences to the family and friends of Professor Arday, and to honour his legacy
2. call on government to take political action to end institutional racism in higher education
3. demand government works with trade unions and Black staff to develop a properly resourced approach to tackling racism in higher education
4. call on government to strengthen accountability for institutions that fail to address racial inequality and ensure funding and policy support meaningful anti-racist work
5. work with trade unions and anti-racist organisations to challenge the far right and build solidarity against racism and division.
Mover: University and College Union
Seconder: NEU