Statement from Prof. Dickins:

Leeds University has now backed off from the attempt to revoke my Emeritus Professor status. Over 10,000 people have signed this petition: my thanks to every one of you.

This is a victory for free speech, for the right to protest against Israel's ongoing slaughter and dispossession of the Palestinians, and for the distinction between antisemitism and opposition to Israel’s actions. 

I also thank the many other individuals and groups who gave me wonderful support over this issue, including:

• Dozens of individuals who wrote to the University of Leeds on my behalf

• 21 Fellows of the British Academy who wrote to the Leeds University Vice-Chancellor

• University and College Union

• British Society for Middle Eastern Studies

• British Committee for the Universities of Palestine 

• Committee for Academic Freedom

• Palestine Solidarity Campaign

In what I believe is an attempt to cover its withdrawal of the move to strip me of my status, the University now proposes to remove from me certain privileges normally available to Emeritus Professors. I am seeking legal advice and will formally challenge what many people will see as a petty and vindictive attempt on the University’s part to save face.