Young people need to protect their future by not getting involved in violence, says Queen’s VC

Young people need to protect their future by not getting involved in violence, says Queen's VC

8 August, 2024

Queen's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Ian Greer, today urged young people not to put their personal futures at risk by partaking in violence and disruption.

He was speaking as Queen's made the decision to close the University campus, including its public facilities, on Friday 9 August as a precautionary measure to ensure staff and students travelling to and from campus are not put at any risk. Staff and students have been informed of interim support and learning measures.

Appealing directly to those involved in the recent disturbances, the Vice-Chancellor said:

"At Queen's, we abhor violence and condemn without reservation islamophobia, racism and xenophobia in all forms.

"As a university community, we are committed to diversity, equality, inclusion and belonging, and to our campus being a safe, secure environment for all staff and students. I urge young people who might become involved in violence to understand that the biggest threat to your future prospects does not come from people fleeing persecution in other parts of the world, or from committed international staff who underpin the Health Service, or from families, like yours, who wish to live in peace and contribute to society here.

"Rather, the biggest threat to your future prospects, and the greatest threat to your safety, comes from those who believe that violence is the answer, and that damage and destruction brings progress. None of this is true. We all want to see Belfast as a place that offers opportunities for you and your future. Violence will not achieve this. Progress comes through cooperation and dialogue.

"Queen's is a committed partner for all of the people of Belfast. We work closely with communities to identify and address the challenges exacerbated by social inequalities. We are your university. We hold opportunities for you, as much as anyone else.

"Let's work together positively to change people's lives. Let's harness our energies for the wider good, including your own. Please do not jeopardise your future and the future of your city through misguided actions, which will damage your chances in life and damage this great city."

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