Thirdly, it is also a celebration and we have to celebrate the freedoms we have today, whilst thinking about the countless number of people who married into false marriages, killed themselves or were killed through hate crimes. We have to commemorate the lives lost, and we have to love one another, whilst also celebrating Pride and the parade in London where the month culminates with a celebration. Next Steps: Of course, we still have a way to go, and lot to learn from the private sector. I hope we can make further change by working closely together on policy, such as a Trans policy. New English regulation and legislation has already or is about to come into force that interact with existing, producing a more nuanced environment to navigate through. This includes the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023. The University is updating its policies to both ensure they remain compliant and clearly promote expected behaviours in line with our values and vision. The policy update will incorporate 5 key principles: Challenge and debate are central to the pursuit of knowledge within universities. It is recognised that the expression of individual views and opinions may cause offence to some. ‘Being offended’ is not a sufficient basis for complaint nor is it legally protected. Censoring or marginalising some groups to protect others is not allowed. Nevertheless, all members of the University community are required to behave with dignity and tolerance for others in work and study. Our diversity is our strength – in ideas and viewpoints as well as in individual life experiences. We want every member of staff and student to bring their whole selves to work and study, to feel supported and treated with dignity and respect, whilst also being open to constructive challenge, encouraged to consider alternative viewpoints, as well as to recognise what is not acceptable behaviour. Fear of being cancelled either way can mean leaders don’t speak out or support causes, but as leaders it’s our role to understand that what we say carries weight, and that we think before we speak/publish things.
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