Hate incidents
The University considers a Hate Incident to be an incident which is perceived by the victim or any other person, to be motivated by hostility or prejudice, based on a person's:
- disability or perceived disability;
- race or perceived race;
- religion or perceived religion;
- sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation; transgender identity or perceived transgender identity.
Where there is evidence that an incident is found to be motivated by hostility or prejudice, the University will treat this an aggravating factor in considering any appropriate action to take. Hate incidents may also be crimes and consideration should be given to reporting such matters to the police.
The incident can take many forms, and be perpetrated by either an individual or group, including:
- physical attacks, such as physical assault, damage to property, offensive graffiti, neighbour disputes and arson
- threat of attack, including offensive letters, abusive or obscene telephone calls and other intimidating behaviour
- verbal abuse or insults, abusive gestures
- other abuse, such as offensive leaflets and posters, unfounded and malicious complaints and bullying.
Please see our harassment section for a more detailed breakdown on the different types of harassment.
International definition of Antisemitism
The University has adopted the International Definition of Antisemitism: Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred towards Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish inidividuals and/or their property, towards Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.
The full definition, including examples of antisemitism in public life, the media, schools, the workplace and in the religious sphere, can be found on the Campaign against Antisemitism website.