UCL announces action against racism, antisemitism and Islamophobia

As part of its commitment to drive race equality and tackle discrimination, UCL has agreed three key actions that will support its work to raise awareness and understanding of different forms of racism. Following approval last night by UCL's governing Council, the university will: Adopt a Statement on Race developed by UCL's Race Equality Steering Group (see below) Adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Association working definition of antisemitism in full, with two additional caveats recommended by the Home Affairs Select Committee in 2016 (see below) Set up a working group to examine Islamophobia and Muslim student and staff experience and recommend actions and activities, including bringing forward a statement on Islamophobia that is supported by UCL's Muslim community. Proposals for these three actions were developed in partnership with UCL's BAME communities and reflect UCL's understanding that communities affected by racism are best placed to define their own experience and to take the lead in addressing it. UCL will continue to consult with its academic community on the use and evolution of statements and definitions that support its equality, diversity and inclusivity strategy. Freedom of speech within the law for all staff, students and visiting speakers is guaranteed by UCL's Code of Practice on Freedom of Speech, which will not be affected by adoption of the statement and definition. Welcoming Council's decision, UCL President & Provost Professor Michael Arthur said:  "UCL was founded to be a place where everyone could find a home regardless of their ethnicity, nationality or faith.