As the Black & Minority Ethnic (BME) Sabbatical Officer at Cambridge SU, I am deeply saddened and outraged by the recent surge of Islamophobic, racist, and xenophobic riots, as well as far-right terrorism across the UK. We stand in unwavering solidarity with migrants, Muslim, Black and Minority Ethnic communities during these incredibly trying times. No one should ever have to fear for their safety due to the colour of their skin, heritage or ethnic background.
We are particularly aware of the impact that these riots may be having on our students, many of whom are away from Cambridge over the summer, but who deserve to feel safe no matter where they are.
We join the National Union of Students (NUS) in noting that these attacks are not isolated incidents but the result of a growing and dangerous narrative which seeks to normalise systemic racism. (To add your name to the NUS statement to show solidarity with migrants, racialised and Muslim communities targeted by far-right violence, click here).
It is all of our responsibilities to condemn this abhorrent extremism. In our colleges, in our clubs and societies, and in the wider communities to which we belong, we must actively challenge and counter all forms of racism, including Islamophobia, ensuring safe welfare spaces for all. Together with your Welfare and Community Officer, we will be hosting a welfare space on Tuesday 13th of August at the SU lounge, between 3-5pm for students to come together and discuss possible action points to ensure the wellbeing of our students. We have also put together a list of welfare resources for affected students which can be accessed at the end of this statement.
We encourage everyone to reach out with kindness to friends, family and neighbours who may be impacted. We draw inspiration from the noble actions of individuals like Imam Adam Kelwick, who extended a hand of peace and offered food to those gathered outside his mosque. His example shines as a beacon of hope and humanity. In these anxious and fearful times, our strength lies in our unity and compassion. Solidarity is stronger than fear, and hope will always triumph over hate.
Empathetically Yours,
Maroof Rafique
Black & Minority Ethnic (BME) Sabbatical Officer 2024-25
Cambridge SU
The 2024-25 Sabbatical Officer Team
Cambridge SU
BME Campaign Executive Committee 2024-2025
Cambridge SU
Welfare Resources:
In an emergency, please call 999. For non-emergencies, call 101.
For support, please reach out to the following services: