'Shocking' and 'disturbing' survey on racism published by Dundee Uni

Some students commented "if non-whites don't like it they should leave the country"

Author: Callum ClarkPublished 7th Jun 2021

Dundee University's apologising to staff and students who've been racially abused.

It follows an internal survey which its principal has described as "disturbing" and "shocking".

The review highlighted views of a "clear lack of ethnic diversity" and concerns of racism being dismissed.

Most horrifying of all, some anonymous accounts from students, which includes "if non-whites don't like it, they should leave the country."

The report found staff were more than three times likely to witness or be racially abused, harassed or bullied on campus, compared to their white colleagues.

Professor Iain Gillespie, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University, said, “I apologise on behalf of the University to every member of our community who has been a victim of racism while living and studying here.

"It is unacceptable in our society that people should experience this, and we must show zero tolerance of such attitudes and behaviour.

“The results of this survey show that problems that exist across much of our society are also problems within our University community, the city and the surrounding area. There is much in the report that makes for disturbing, shocking, and uncomfortable reading.

“My absolute commitment is that this survey must be the start of a process of acceptance of the issues which are laid out in these results, and lead to greater actions to make the University, the city and Scotland a truly fair and equitable place for all, regardless of race.

“The University has many policies in place regarding racial equality, diversity and inclusion. We have taken positive steps over many years to ensure fairness and a welcoming environment for all. The results of this survey show that it has not been enough. We must do more.”

It also touched on wider concerns within Dundee - with respondents pointing to the destruction of a black lives matter mural in Slessor Gardens last year.

It was the work of former Dundee University student Sekai Machache, who lived in the city for 12 years.

She's telling Tay News people need to open their eyes to racism.

"It's gotten as bad as being spat on in the street twice, on Perth Road, and my work being vandalised," said Sekai.

"I've actually had my work vandalised in Dundee twice. People meet my words with surprise but at this point that's just as much of a microaggression as anything else.

"Black people are consistently telling you that racism is happening. Our daily lived experience of racism is these small ways that people undermine you or the ways in which systemic racism is met against you in terms of how often we get promotions for jobs."

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