Ongoing Conflict in Israel and Palestine
This webpage has been put together to provide information on Bristol SU's response to the ongoing conflict in Israel and Palestine.
Statement
As the violence in Palestine and Israel continues and spreads, we want to reiterate our solidarity with all those who have been affected. For many, this conflict will have formed part of the backdrop of this academic year, and likely will continue to do so – we know it’s crucial not to stop paying attention or speaking out, and to continue supporting the groups this has impacted.
We have been in direct contact with the groups most affected since October. If you are struggling, please don’t hesitate to reach out - we’ve included a reminder of the different support available below.
All people have the right to live in peace and prosperity, free from terrorism, free from occupation, free from violence and free from fear. We are deeply saddened and alarmed by the ever-increasing loss of life, immense suffering and reports of human rights violations in the region. We join all those calling for a humanitarian ceasefire in the war.
Palestinian people are not responsible for the actions of Hamas and Jewish people are not responsible for the actions of the Israeli government. Advocating for a free Palestine and combatting antisemitism are not mutually exclusive, and we will continue to do both.
Hate or discrimination of any form has no place on our campus and we’re very concerned to hear of antisemitism, islamophobia, anti-Palestinian racism, and other forms of racial prejudice being experienced by our students and staff, exacerbated by the current conflict. It is all our responsibility to create a safe and comfortable environment for our students from marginalised groups – if you witness hate, aim to call it out. If you have experienced any of these prejudices, please reach out.
As an Officer team we have been working to support Palestinian, Israeli, Muslim and Jewish students. We’ve also been trying to advocate for student voices, feelings and worries, about the conflict and the university’s response when meeting with university stakeholders. You can find further information below.
Saranya Thambirajah, on behalf of the Bristol SU Officer Team
Support Available for Students
The University of Bristol offers support during time of humanitarian crisis and global conflict. You can see the events and resources they have available here.
The Global Lounge has set up a series of monthly events – Talk and support in troubled times.
You can get direct support from the University Wellbeing Services:
- telephone: +44 (0)117 456 9860 (open 24 hours a day)
- email: wellbeing-access@bristol.ac.uk
- completing the request wellbeing support form.
If anyone is finding it difficult to study or complete an assessment, they may be able to apply for exceptional circumstances (formerly, ‘extenuating circumstances’). The university provides information on that here, and students can get support with that process from the SU academic advice service.
The Multifaith Chaplaincy offers open spaces to study, relax, connect with others and get support. You can see the events they have upcoming here.
Student Groups
Connect with your community through societies and networks such as:
You can also access the following national services:
- If you see or experience antisemitism, report it to the Community Security Trust
- The Union of Jewish Students have opened a Welfare Hotline for students on 02074243288
- Find support and information about Islamophobia from the Muslim Council of Britain
- If you see of experience islamophobia, report it to the Islamophobia Response Unit
- Report hate crime to the police
What have we been doing to support you?
Here is an overview of some of the actions that we've taken to support you during this time.
Lobbying the University to use 'Palestine'. Your officers have listened to calls from Palestinian students to use the term 'Palestine' over 'Gaza' or 'the middle east'. Saranya, your Equality, Liberation and Access Officer, met with the Vice Chancellor and other senior colleagues to discuss the issue and represent student voice.
Ensuring exceptional circumstances are granted to those affected by the conflict. Saranya, your Equality, Liberation and Access Officer, has been in touch with the EC team who have made assurances around this as long as students can provide proof of impact.
Bringing together affected students and university senior leaders. Following conversations with the Vice Chancellor and senior university colleagues, Saranya, your Equality, Liberation and Access Officer has been facilitating direct dialogue between affected students and management. The first meeting went well, and there will be another held in due course.
Engaging with students and the university on discussions around links with the arms trade and possible future divestment.
Student Activity
On Thursday 8 February, JSoc will be taking part in a nationwide Challah Bake for Hostages in Gaza. Contact JSoc directly for the ticket link.
The Bristol SU Volunteering and Fundraising Network, alongside different student groups hosted a Palestine Fundraising Fair on Tuesday 6 February. This raised over £2,500 for Medical Aid for Palestinians.
