The Highlands and Islands Students’ Association is appalled by the violence and deplorable actions of the far-right across the UK.
The Highlands and Islands Students’ Association is appalled by the violence and deplorable actions of the far-right across the United Kingdom. We want to reassure our members that we stand firmly against such actions and are committed to supporting all of our students.
Our student movement is a united force, standing resolutely behind the brave individuals within our local communities, risking their safety to protect and support our students across the country. We fundamentally believe in the human right to protest, but these are not protests – they are racist and Islamophobic acts, and we must call them out as such.
Racism and Islamophobia have no place in our communities, and we vehemently reject all forms of racial prejudice, bias, and discrimination. The student movement will continue to actively work towards dismantling systemic racism and fostering an environment of equality and understanding.
The UK must be a place where migrants can live safely, free from fear, thriving through their hard work and meaningful contributions to society. Since the start of the rioting, we have seen communities come together in peaceful anti-racism protests showing that the UK is an inclusive place, showing that migrants from all backgrounds will always be welcomed into the student movement within the UK.
We understand that some of our students may be worried, anxious, or even scared about what they have seen in the media regarding the recent events. We want to reassure you that we are here for you as your Students’ Association.
Your Executive officers are in direct communication with other UK officers and the National Union of Students to collaborate on combating these deplorable actions.
Additionally, we will keep our students updated with reliable information about these violent incidents that may affect locations that any of our Academic Partners are in. In the meantime, we call for:
We stand in solidarity with those subjected to the horrendous abuse that we have seen take place. Our solidarity is not just a gesture; it is a crucial stand against hate and injustice. The Highlands and Islands Students’ Association will always be a place of inclusivity and a place of support for those of all backgrounds.
You belong here, and we care about you.
In Solidarity,
Highlands and Islands Students’ Association Executive Committee 2024/2025
#StudentsAgainstRacism
Support
If you have been directly affected by these events or have been subjected to any of the prejudices that people have faced, please contact your local Academic Student Support teams.
- HISA Advice Service - Contact Us (uhi.ac.uk) hisa.advice@uhi.ac.uk
- UHI mental health and wellbeing resources - Support - Support for your wellbeing and mental health (uhi.ac.uk)
- UHI Student Support contacts Support - Student support contacts (uhi.ac.uk)
- Stop Hate UK National Organisations - Stop Hate UK