Dear students,
The horrific terror attack at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue was shocking. Like all of you, my thoughts go first to the victims and their loved ones.
Many in our community are grieving and afraid. Our Jewish students and colleagues are in a state of shock and mourning after an attack on a place of worship on their holiest day of the year.
I have visited the synagogue and attended a vigil on Friday afternoon to convey our sorrow and support.
As I contemplate the fear and anxiety that so many of you will be experiencing, I want to be clear: hate has no place on our campus, or in our city.
The University of Manchester stands as one against all forms of violence and hatred. We believe in freedom of speech and robust, respectful debate, but we will not tolerate antisemitism, Islamophobia, or other forms of racism, prejudice, abuse, or harassment.
I will do everything I can to ensure our campus remains a place where difference is valued, and where safety and dignity are non-negotiable for everyone. I am here to listen to you and support you. Since the attack, I have been in touch with our Jewish and Muslim chaplains, as well as community leaders, and we will be working together over the coming weeks to demonstrate our deep commitment to building a safe, tolerant and inclusive city region.
I encourage you to seek help if you need it. You can contact a range of services (including some that are available 24/7) through the Student Support website and the Students’ Union Advice Centre. You can speak to your Academic Advisor or Supervisor, at any time.
Above all, I encourage everyone to show compassion and respect. Check in on your friends. If you witness harassment or hate, report it. If you feel unsafe, seek help. Remember you can download the SafeZone app, which you can use to call for help 24/7 should you need it whilst on the University campus, including across residences at Fallowfield and Victoria Park. We have also increased security on campus, as a precaution.
What happened is truly awful. Manchester’s strength lies in how we choose to respond: standing together, rejecting division, and protecting and supporting those who need it most. The next few days and weeks will be difficult for many in our community. But I know we will come together to meet those challenges.
Best wishes,
D
Professor Duncan Ivison, President & Vice-Chancellor