This past week, we have seen shocking scenes of violence and hatred across the country. Fascists have set fire to libraries, cars, and hotels housing refugees. Alongside this, there have been attacks on racialised people, their businesses, and their homes. However, this hatred hasn't gone unchallenged, organisations and individuals turned out in full force to support communities and resist this violence, putting their bodies on the line to protect those who the far-right see as a target.

These race riots, and the hatred and violence it embodies, has no place in our society, and as SU sabbatical officers we condemn it and call it out for what it is, fascism and racism. There are more race riots planned for Wednesday and the weekend, which largely focus on immigration centres and hotels housing refugees. We expect these to continue in the same violent manner, and many organisations are planning counter demonstrations to protect the centres and resist the violence of the far-right.

Know your rights

We understand that for many showing up and resisting this violence means going beyond simply condemning it. It is essential that you as an individual know your rights when being stopped, searched, and/or arrested by the police. If you are planning on going out, buddy up, share your GPS with family/friends, and make sure to read up on your rights to be best informed and stay safe.

How to report discrimination

We encourage anyone who has experienced or witnessed any form of abuse to use the Speak Out Tool which can be used anonymously.

If you’re on campus, the Penryn campus Safety and Support team are available 24/7 and be contacted either by calling 01326254444, or using the safezone app.

If you are in immediate danger please call emergency services on 999.

Internal support available

The SU advice team are here to offer free, non-judgmental, and confidential advice to all students.

The FX Plus wellbeing team are here to support you and offer help and advice.

The chaplaincy is a welcoming place for people of all or no denominations to be heard and feel safe.

External support available

The Community Support Trust (CST) has many resources published online as well as a way to report any antisemitism you may experience.

Tell Mama is a confidential support service where you can find a variety of ways to report anti-muslim discrimination as well as other valuable resources.

Stop Hate UK is an organization to help you with reporting a hate crime and receiving support before, during, and after the process.

We stand against the hate and violence that we are seeing across the UK, and we are here for all students that might need extra support at this challenging time. Remember to please stay safe and take care of yourselves and those around you.