In light of the recent Christchurch terror attacks, we students of the University of Auckland demand that the University take a more active role in addressing racism on campus.

We have been made aware of a number of incidents that have ranged from racist and nazi propaganda displayed on campus spaces to racist comments and inappropriate behaviour in learning environments. So far, no public statement has been made by the university to address these incidents. 

By failing to take active and tangible steps towards collectively addressing racism, The University of Auckland is taking the side of oppression. While there has been enormous symbolic support for the victims in Christchurch, no perceivable action has been taken to measure and address racism at the university. We demand that the University take tangible measures to ensure that our learning environment is safe for all. We should all feel welcome in our learning spaces and nobody should face oppression when trying to learn. Taking a hard stance against racism, and sending a clear no-tolerance message, is necessary in light of recent events to make us feel safe. 

As students, we ask that the University equip its teaching staff with the tools to address racism within their faculties and in the classroom. We also ask that it take complaints relating to harmful behaviour seriously and take disciplinary action against all those who cause harm. To the Vice Chancellor Stuart McCutcheon, we ask that he lead by example and enforce the no-tolerance policy against racism and discrimination.