Joint Statement from UCA Students' Union and Head of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (UCA)
On Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR), we honour the lives of transgender and gender-diverse individuals lost to anti-trans violence. This day invites reflection and action - it is both a solemn occasion and a powerful call for daily, visible allyship across our diverse communities.
At UCA:
- We stand firmly against transphobia, harassment, and discrimination.
- We foster a campus culture where trans and non-binary students and staff are seen, respected and safe.
- We acknowledge the emotional weight of this day. If you need support, please reach out to the services listed below.
- We commit to practical steps that transform allyship into meaningful impact.
How We Demonstrate Visible Allyship:
- Listen and learn: Educate yourself about trans experiences and histories. Seek reputable resources and avoid misinformation.
- Use names and pronouns: Normalise sharing your own pronouns and correct mistakes with humility and respect.
- Challenge prejudice: Intervene safely and report misinformation, stereotypes, or discriminatory behaviour.
- Design inclusively: Embed inclusive practices in studios, classrooms, and events by reviewing language, forms, facilities, and procedures.
- Lead with kindness: Small actions: such as amplifying trans voices or checking in on friends and colleagues, make a meaningful difference.
Our Commitments at UCA:
- Safer spaces & reporting: Clear pathways to report incidents, with timely and transparent follow-up via UCA’s Report and Support (Report + Support - Report + Support - University for the Creative Arts).
- Education: Ongoing training for staff and students on inclusion, respectful dialogue and bystander intervention.
- Inclusive environments: Continuous review of policies, facilities, data, and communications to reflect and respect all genders.
- Partnership: Co-creating change with trans and non-binary students and staff, UCASU, and our wider communities.
Support:
As a creative university, we believe imagination can transform culture. Let us use our collective creativity to build a community where everyone can learn, teach, and create without fear. Today we remember; tomorrow, and every day, we act.
Signed,
Peter MacDonald Hall (FIEDP) (He/Him), Head of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion, UCA
Joshua Singh-Hill (He/Him), President Canterbury, UCASU
Shayaike Hassan (He/Him), President Epsom, UCASU
Phoebe Daniels (She/Her), President Farnham, UCASU
Luchia Leigh (MIEDP) (She/They), Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity Advisor, UCA