Dear staff,
As you may be aware, members of our community are exercising their right to protest about the ongoing conflict in the Middle East by establishing camps in The Great Court at St Lucia, similar to the camps at Sydney and Melbourne universities.
As activism about the conflict increases on campus, I am writing to remind students and staff about our core values of respect and inclusivity and about our free speech and conduct policies, which all members of UQ are required to uphold.
Safe and respectful community
The University has a strong commitment to freedom of speech, which recognises the rights of staff and students to protest and express their views.
When differences in views occur, our expectations are that discourse is civil, ensuring our campuses remain respectful and inclusive places – where all members of our community are safe to engage in their studies, research, work or other activities, and access buildings and other facilities. Discrimination and harassment will not be tolerated at UQ.
The University has a policy framework in place that students and staff must adhere to. These include our freedom of speech policy, as well as our student and staff codes of conduct and our Prevention of Discrimination, Harassment and Bullying Behaviours Procedure.
Security protocols
As you would expect, the University has established processes and personnel to monitor activities and, if required, is prepared to respond appropriately to any actions or behaviours that do not adhere to the University’s policies.
Queensland Police are also aware of the activities on campus and may choose independently to attend campus from time to time while the camps continue.
Support for staff and students
The University has a range of free and confidential support services available.
Staff can speak to their manager/supervisor, access the Employee Assistance Program (available 24/7) or contact the HR team directly by emailing askhr@uq.edu.au or telephoning (07) 3365 2623.
Students can contact Student Services on 1300 275 870 (8:30am to 5pm) or the UQ Counselling and Crisis Line on 1300 851 998 (available 24/7).
In an emergency, UQ Security can be contacted on (07) 3365 3333 or via the UQ SafeZone app 24/7.
As an organisation, we welcome students and colleagues from diverse perspectives, cultures and faiths. While the University supports people expressing their views, I would encourage everyone to be mindful of the possible impact our actions and words can have on others and to ensure that we continue to treat each other with dignity and respect.
With best wishes
Debbie
