On Monday 4 December, David Ruebain, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Culture, Equality & Inclusion) emailed all staff. You can read the message below:
Dear Colleague,
The ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza/Palestine is a catastrophe that gives rise to profound emotions and passionately held political opinions, and to very real disagreements. The situation is affecting many staff and students at Sussex, particularly those of us with deep personal connections to the region, and concerns about family and friends. Whilst positions are highly polarised, there are also those who seek to not ‘take sides’ but are nonetheless also upset, scared and anxious about what is happening. There is, though, growing recognition of the need for dialogue.
Community dialogue on 16 January
The University strives to provide an inclusive, respectful and supportive environment for every member of our diverse and international community, and as an educational and research centre we seek to facilitate dialogue between those with differing views. To this end, members of the University community are invited to express interest in attending a community dialogue on Tuesday 16 January from 5.30pm-7.30pm to explore the ongoing conflict in Israel, Gaza/Palestine and the Middle East, and its ramifications here in the UK and particularly in the University. The purpose of this event is for the University community to come together to share our thoughts and feelings in a ‘listening and dialogue circle’, guided by our values of collaboration, courage, inclusion, integrity, and kindness.
Dialogue is not ‘discussion’ or ‘debate’. We are not attempting to reach agreement or consensus, or decide on courses of action. The purpose is not activism or campaigning. Through dialogue, which will be supported by external facilitators, we aim to create a space to recognise and hold our shared humanity and to allow honest sharing and open listening. This can help us understand how history and experiences shape our own and others’ beliefs, lead to recognition of common ground, and support authentic, respectful relationships. In that way, we can move individually and collectively towards a broader and deeper understanding of each other and the wider picture. Even more than this, dialogue offers hope that something different is possible.
Express your interest by Monday 18 December
This event requires registration to ensure, as far as possible, that it is a safe and brave space for our community to explore this very challenging issue. There are a limited number of places and we will seek to ensure, as far as we are able, that a range of perspectives and backgrounds is represented. This might mean that not everyone who expresses an interest will be able to attend.
We know that at the event we will not be able to resolve the many deep differences and disagreements that characterise this conflict. While we will not all agree, we want everyone who attends to feel heard and respected.
To express your initial interest in joining the event, please complete this short online form by Monday 18 December. You will then be sent more information and a link to submit further details to register your interest in due course.
With good wishes,
David Ruebain
Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Culture, Equality and Inclusion)