Like so many, I am deeply upset and angry at the racial injustices and ongoing inequalities in the UK and beyond. Whilst George Floyd’s brutal murder in the US is a horrific tragedy, the catalyst for positive action and change cannot be ignored. Too late for many, it is still a time to act, not just feel.

Looking at some of the social media posts and racist petitions set up in contrast to the BLM movement, it shows anti-racists need to act collectively to make a lasting difference and legacy for those who have died unnecessarily.

But what difference can a privileged white person make? Feeling ashamed of our country’s colonialist and imperialist past will not bring the positive changes and racial equalities needed. Yes, all lives matter, but to those of you who don’t see a place for the BLM movement, look closer at the systemic racism throughout all aspects of our society today - education, healthcare (in part highlighted by the disproportionate COVID19 deaths), justice, immigration, social mobility, the economy... enough is enough. 

The BBC in 2017 and more recently, the Bristol Post in December 2019 highlighted issues of institutional racism at the University of Bristol following an open letter to them from the Student Union, and a dramatic change in culture, both inside and outside needs to take place.  

Much University infrastructure across Bristol (and the UK) pays outdated, misplaced recognition and homage to the city’s slave trade and it is high time these should be redesigned or renamed to celebrate a multicultural, egalitarian 21st Century Britain. Colston Hall has now changed to Bristol Beacon.  And Liverpool University has already committed to rename Gladstone Halls of Residence for exactly that reason.  

The University of Bristol has a responsibility to do the same. Be on the right side of history for a change and become the inclusive and egalitarian institution you should be.  Agreeing to decolonise the curriculum and appointing a black Professor of Slavery History is not enough to bring about equality.  As a former Bristol history student and Goldney Hall alumnus I propose we start here.

The National Archives show records that reveal slavery voyages were financed by both Thomas Goldney II and his son and they heavily invested in ironworks that enabled the triangular slave trade by making the horrific iron chains and torture equipment used by slave owners. This is not a man or historical past to be celebrated.  Likewise, buildings that pay homage to the Wills family also commemorate the transatlantic slave trade, having made much of their fortune from tobacco and slavery. And many of the roads are named after prominent, wealthy merchants who significantly benefited from the brutal slave trade.  This history didn't appear in the University prospectus.

Please sign this petition to rename University of Bristol infrastructure and redesign the logo, as a long overdue move to start promoting 21st Century racial equality across the city, as opposed to racism.

This action is long overdue. #renew #Rename. Time for positive change. Please sign and share. Thank you #BLM