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From sanctuary in health to university of sanctuary
Mitchell, W.L.
Mitchell, W.L.
Publication Date
2017
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© 2017 British Council. Reproduced with permission and in accordance with the publisher's self-archiving policy.
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Abstract
The shocking pictures of a drowned Syrian boy in September 2015 spurred European governments and organisations into taking action to address the growing refugee crisis. The University of Bradford was no different and the senior management team began to look at ways of responding. Consultation was carried out with local organisations at a Bradford City of Sanctuary event and with other UK universities. This suggested that the university should:
Recognise how the concept of sanctuary fits with its traditional values and the strategic plan (which includes inclusivity, diversity, internationalisation and sustainability);
See this as a long-term issue. ‘Responses need to be long-term. The refugee crisis will be here for years to come.’;
Recognise this as an issue that is wider than Syrian refugees. There are substantial numbers of asylum seekers and refugees escaping conflict in other countries such as Eritrea, Afghanistan and Iraq;
Align with the civic and community response. The city of Bradford has a proud history of welcoming and including newcomers from all corners of the world and has responded positively to the current crisis. The City of Sanctuary initiative plays a major role in this response.
The university response would follow three main principles:
To build on and scale up the excellent work previously carried out at faculty level in being awarded Sanctuary in Health to then apply for a University of Sanctuary award;
To develop a holistic response across the university, involving faculties, professional services and students. This should be inclusive to generate commitment, ownership and awareness across the whole university;
To take a broad, inclusive definition of sanctuary, embracing academics at risk as well as student refugees and asylum seekers.
Version
Published version
Citation
Mitchell WL and Haith-Cooper M (2017) From sanctuary in health to university of sanctuary. In: Stiasny M and Gore T (Eds). Going Global: Building nations, connecting cultures. London: British Council and UCL Institute of Education Press. Pp. 136-146.
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Type
Book chapter