Here at Durham, we want to inspire and foster a community of expression and engagement. We want our community to be active in the fight against racism. Although things are changing and movements such as the Black Lives Matter have highlighted racism and provided a catalyst for change, racist incidents still take place. Racism and division are not welcome within our University community, everyone has a role to play in embedding an anti-racist culture.
Racism can take many forms but includes prejudice, discrimination and hatred directed to individuals because of their colour, ethnicity or national origin. It can affect people and communities in different ways. It is only by understanding the impact our behaviours and privileges can have on others that we can ensure that everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
Information on the definitions adopted by Durham University in relation to Antisemitism and Islamophobia can be viewed on this page.
In March 2019, Durham University signed up to the Race Equality Charter (REC), which aims to improve the representation, progression and success of racially minoritised communities within higher education.
REC provides a robust framework that guides the University in identifying and evaluating institutional and cultural barriers that stand in the way of racially minoritised staff and students. The University's REC application for a Bronze Award was submitted to Advance HE at the end of May 2022; and an award has been conferred in July 2022. Learn more about the University's REC work here.
Black History Month
Every October, staff and students across the University arrange activities for Black History Month (BHM). With the recent Black Lives Matter social movement and with the ongoing decolonising the curriculum initiatives, commemorating and sharing our Black communities’ stories, struggles and accomplishments — both past and present, have never been more important. Staff and students can view our Black History Month Hub for various BHM resources.
Black Asian Minority Ethnic Staff and Student Network
Durham People of Colour Association
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