UNE held a morning tea in support of the Iranian community last Thursday in the wake of devastating social and political events in Iran, including the death of 22-year-old woman Masha Amini, and subsequent deaths of protesters.
The morning tea, attended by around 40 staff at Booloominbah, recognised the impact of these events on Iranian staff, and was an opportunity to join together in solidarity and support.
The Armidale Iranian community has expressed their thanks, with one member stating:
“The Iranian community would like to thank the UNE Chancellor, Interim Vice-Chancellor, UNE Executive and colleagues for their support in recognition of the persecution and violence our people are facing in our home country.”
“While we are seeing a horrific assault on our human rights and are worried for our friends and families, it is so important to us to know we have the understanding, empathy and support from our colleagues at UNE.
“As soon as we voiced our distress, the Interim VC, Professor Simon Evans, along with the Chancellor, James Harris and UNE staff rallied to pull together a statement of support and put on an event where we really felt an outpouring of care and understanding. As Iranians, we are very grateful.”
Violence, particularly against women citizens in Iran, has sparked an outcry from the public with protests across the world demanding freedom for Iranian women and minority groups against the oppressive laws implemented in Iran. UNE has voiced its condemnation for any oppression and violence and expressed its support for citizens whose human rights are under threat.
UNE continues to offer its support for the local Iranian community.
“As a multicultural university, it is of utmost importance that our Iranian students, alumni, staff, and their families, friends and loved ones are offered the appropriate support and assistance,” UNE Chancellor James Harris and Interim Vice Chancellor and CEO Simon Evans, said in a recent statement.
The statement also requested that staff continue to remember and look out for Iranian colleagues who may be particularly affected by these events.
For extra support, free counselling is available to UNE staff through Benestar.