Zero tolerance to discrimination: joint statement from the University and SU

The University of Manchester and our Students’ Union are united in our position that we will not tolerate any forms of discrimination or harassment. 

We are deeply disturbed to see antisemitic graffiti appear within the Students’ Union toilets. It was removed immediately and has been reported to the Police. Anyone we can identify who has contributed will face disciplinary action and may face criminal prosecution. 

We fully recognise the very difficult situation in the Middle East and that feelings are strong and inevitably polarised. We also believe that universities should, above all other institutions, be places of freedom of expression, tolerance, and open debate, with respect for others of different views. But we wish to be very clear that this does not in any way allow discriminatory comments or actions - or any other unlawful conduct - within our University, which is very distressing to many within our community. We have previously shared a statement from our Chaplains, reminding of the need for tolerance and that discrimination has no place on our campus. 

We reiterate how important it is for concerns to be reported so they can be investigated and action taken. If you or someone you know has experienced or witnessed any form of hate or have a safeguarding concern, we would urge you to report this to the University’s Report and Support Team or the Students’ Union Advice Centre (which you may do anonymously), both of which have trained advisors ready to provide support. 

The University also provides a professional Counselling and Mental Health Service for students, a 24 hour mental health helpline and wellbeing app, a Multi Faith Chaplaincy which welcomes people of all faith and none, and other services detailed on our Student Support page. 

If you would prefer to speak to someone outside of the University, Tell MAMA is an independent organisation that supports victims of Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hate. CST is an independent organisation that supports victims of anti-Semitic hatred, harassment or bias. 

Nancy Rothwell, President and Vice-Chancellor, The University of Manchester