A message to students from Adam Tickell, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Birmingham

It is hard to find words in response to the horrifying reports of violence and loss of life in Israel and Gaza. We share our sympathy with those affected by the conflict, including those among our University community with family, friends or other connections to the region, and condemn the killing of defenceless people. I wholeheartedly hope that peace can be found quickly.

While I acknowledge that there are a range of opinions about the politics and geopolitics of Israel and Palestine, I also need to remind you that Hamas is a proscribed organisation in the UK, which means it is a criminal offence to support them.

It is imperative that our University community is an inclusive and welcoming place. We will not tolerate incidents of antisemitism, Islamophobia, or any other form of discrimination. If you experience or witness any such behaviour, please report it straight away. Our campus should be a safe place for every student and staff member and you can also contact our Community Safety and Security team and download our SafeZone App.

We will provide practical and emotional support where it is needed. Students who need advice and support can contact the Wellbeing teams in their Schools and Colleges, contact our confidential emotional support service UB Heard (available 24/7) or the team at our Multi-Faith Chaplaincy.  

Our university has a long and proud history of stepping up during difficult times: this is one of them.

I would urge you to support each other with empathy, kindness and understanding.

Take good care,

Adam