Freedom to protest

The opportunity to freely express and debate ideas, even contentious ones, is a critical right enjoyed by Australians that should not be taken for granted. Universities, as places where knowledge is developed, tested and shared, have a particular responsibility to allow robust debate to occur.

But the right to freedom of expression also comes with responsibility. Our university provides a climate in which people must be able to safely and respectfully disagree. So, while people have a right to criticise, challenge the views of others and otherwise engage in robust debate, this does not extend to uncivil or disrespectful behaviour.

The current situation in Gaza is terribly confronting for people across the world and I acknowledge the devastating impact on those of you who have a direct family connection to the conflict. I also acknowledge those affected by other global conflicts and devastating natural events, of which sadly, there are currently many.

Our campus regularly hosts events that provide students and staff an opportunity to speak up about issues that concern them and the wider community. In recent weeks these have included a number of activities related to the conflict in Gaza. These events have generated both vocal support and complaints about whether these activities are appropriate and about the behaviour of some of those attending.

I am profoundly disappointed at some of the divisive rhetoric and some statements and behaviours that have reportedly occurred.  An investigation is underway and UTS is committed to acting on any findings from that process. 

I want to assure those who raised concerns about these events that all feedback has been very carefully considered. 

I also want to reiterate to all staff, students and visitors to our campus, that while the university encourages freedom of speech, this should not be at the expense of the safety and wellbeing of others. 

When permitting any student-organised event or rally to be held on campus, UTS carefully balances the rights and responsibilities of all our students, including the right to freedom of lawful expression. This is an important principle to ensure that all voices in our community can be heard in a safe and respectful manner.

It is understandable that some in our university community with passionately held and often divergent views may not support every decision made, particularly when it does not accord with their own view, however this balancing of rights and responsibilities is complex and requires an exercise of judgement that aims to protect everyone. 

Achieving a safe, inclusive and respectful UTS community, requires all of us to play our part.  I seek the support of all of you to proactively help make our campus a place where we can address contentious issues, stand up for what we believe in, embrace diverse viewpoints, and advocate for causes we are passionate about. This includes each of us taking personal responsibility to ensure that we are contributing to a safe and respectful campus community. We must find a way to do this while maintaining respect for others, even those with whom we vehemently disagree.