As tensions between India and Pakistan escalate, I have been reflecting on the emotional toll these recurring conflicts take not only on those living in the region, but also on members of our community here in Leeds with ties to the region that are carrying the weight of uncertainty and fear.  

War is never the solution, and it is always at the expense of innocent lives. The communities most affected are rarely the ones responsible for these conflicts. We ask all our students to navigate this situation with empathy and kindness. 

My Officer Team and I stand in solidarity with all students and staff impacted by this violence. Leeds Beckett Students' Union will always condemn Hinduphobia, Islamophobia, xenophobia, and racial or cultural discrimination, which too often surge during times like these. We must not allow global conflicts to sow division, hatred, or hostility in our community at Leeds Beckett.  

Now more than ever, we must stand united against hate, violence, and the normalisation of war. 

Dhruv Dev, Students' Union President 
 

If you or a student, colleague or visitor of our university have experienced any of these forms of unacceptable behaviour, you can let us know anonymously or you can provide your details and receive advice through Support Report Respect: www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/our-community/support-report-respect. 
 
If you experienced or witnessed a hate crime, you can report it to Stop Hate UK or the police on 999 or 101 for non-emergencies, who will support you with this process.  

If you or someone you know has been affected by these events, emotional support is available through the student wellbeing services and the university chaplaincy service for faith and non-faith support.