UCU statement on fascist violence

'UCU sends its heartfelt condolences to the victims and loved ones of the atrocious attack in Southport last week. The local community needs the support and space to heal and come together after those tragic events.

'Fascist thugs have instead exploited this tragedy to launch racist and Islamophobic violence across England. We send our solidarity to all those under attack, including the many Black and Asian people who were assaulted, as well as international students and staff who will rightly be worried for their safety.

'We applaud all those who joined the many protests against the far right. We encourage UCU members and all trade unionists to continue to stand against them and to offer support to local mosques and community groups. When doing so, please remain vigilant, look after each other and travel in groups.

'The racism we have seen did not occur in a vacuum. It is the result of decades of emboldening anti-migrant racism by Britain's political and media class. Those who have stoked far-right rhetoric are culpable and must now face consequences. The government needs to tackle both the anti-migrant rhetoric spewed by segments of the press and end its own pandering to racist panics about refugees.'

Jo Grady
UCU general secretary