on The “Understanding Hamas” Event and Ongoing Student Campus Relations Work in the LSESU
We at the LSE Students' Union, are deeply aware that a range of global issues and LSE-specific events may be causing distress within our community. The past few months have undoubtedly been challenging for many of our students, and we want to take this opportunity to reach out, update you on the ongoing work of the LSESU Sabbatical Officers, and remind you of the support services available to you. Our aim is to provide you with the necessary resources to stay informed and feel safe during these times.
At LSE, the institution has committed to upholding the principle of free speech, within the bounds of the law. However, we understand that for many students, this approach has led to them feeling unsafe because of hearing speech that they find harmful or offensive. We acknowledge that the line between free speech and hate speech is often unclear, and, based on the findings from the Power to Speak survey, we know that students are seeking greater clarity on what is considered acceptable. We encourage LSE to publish a more accessible and transparent LSE Free Speech Code of Practice.
LSE is a place where diverse viewpoints can be explored and challenging topics debated, but we urge departments to act with compassion when organising events and ensure principled spaces where productive conversations can be had. These events might raise concerns about increased discrimination, polarisation, or hostility on campus, however, since such events are protected by Free Speech and Academic Freedom, departments and the School should ensure productive discussion and debate and ensure respectful conduct at events. Students should be informed of the support available should they feel harm or have concerns.
Additionally, LSE and departments should maintain strong safeguards when planning public events. For students seeking clarity on current LSE guidelines for public events, we recommend consulting the Chair Notes Guidance and Speaker Guidance documents.
The Students' Union understands that events on campus can have significant emotional and personal effects on our community. We reaffirm our unwavering support for those who wish to engage in activism related to these issues. As we mentioned in our statement from August, we encourage students to consult Green and Black Cross for vital information on their rights and how to ensure a safe and lawful protest.
Whilst protesting is vital at a university like LSE, and is therefore protected, we also promote constructive dialogue, which is why we have established the LSESU Student Campus Relations Group this year. This group aims to foster dialogue and bridge gaps between student groups. It also provides a platform for student leaders from societies who wish to engage in discussions on the most pressing campus issues. We are encouraged by the positive contributions made by this group and are committed to ensuring that campus remains a respectful and inclusive environment for everyone.
We are particularly excited by the progress made by the LSESU Student Campus Relations Group and the collaboration it has fostered with LSE’s Campus Relations Group. This is alongside the many mechanisms in place at the SU to centre Student Voice, like passing Student Policies or LSESU Town Halls (25th March). Our priority is to continue this important work, and we are dedicated to enhancing campus relations in every way possible.
As always, the welfare of our students remains our top priority. Please keep the following resources in mind:
If you're interested in contributing or learning more, please feel free to get in touch with us:
- Lauren Amdor (ACO) or Tito Molokwu (Gen Sec) via email.
- Attend our Sabbatical Officer Sessions on Mondays, from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm, on the 3rd floor of the Saw Swee Hock Building.
Thank you for your attention, and please remember that we are here to support you.
From Your LSESU Sabbatical Officers