by Sarah Shah (Policy Associate, 24/25)
Overview:
The SU wanted to better engage with racial and religious experiences of Oxford students, and we have worked with the University's SRRI Task and Finish Group (TFG) to gather insights into contemporary experiences. Our Policy Associate identified student stakeholders from registered societies and SU Campaigns, later consulting with those who engaged. These semi-structured interviews provided rich data that complemented the wider student submissions via a SU-led survey and discussions held in Students of Colour RepCom.
Aim:
To consider experiences from students of all backgrounds relating to race, religion, and belief in any aspect of student life and learning at Oxford, with 'belief' pertaining specifically to racial and religious inclusion. The project was discussed in SRRI TFG meetings held on 21/11/2024 and 11/02/2025.
Key themes identified:
- - Most students unaware of discriminatory incident report processes or supporting policies
- - Inclusion challenges are intersectional and impacted students bear the burden of pushing for change
- - The Freshers' Fair and BME common room post holders were deemed important when fostering inclusivity but there is disparity in effectiveness - between colleges – colleges and the University could do more to support these roles, such as making venues bookable for prayer spaces more accessible
- - Call for greater interfaith dialogue and expansion of racial and religious sensitivity training
- - Postgraduate support for racial and religious inclusion needs additional work
Outcomes:
Sarah's report has been presented to the SRRI TFG (whereby recommendations will be developed), the SU Staff Team, will brief the incoming Officers (and support how they best represent students), and presented at senior committees, including Student Life Subcommittee.