At York St John University we are passionate about standing up for causes such as social justice, sustainability and equality for all.
Equality and diversity
York St John is dedicated to providing an inclusive, accessible and welcoming environment which supports a diverse and culturally rich community. Our goal is to create an environment where our people can participate and flourish, where equality, humanity and social justice are valued and promoted within and beyond York St John University.
Fundamental British Values underpin what it is to be a citizen in a modern and diverse Great Britain, valuing our community and celebrating diversity in the UK. These values are:
- Democracy: a culture built upon freedom and equality, where everyone is aware of their rights and responsibilities.
- Rule of Law: the need for rules to make a happy, safe and secure environment to live and work.
- Respect and Tolerance: understanding that we do not all share the same beliefs and values. Respecting the values, ideas and beliefs of others while not imposing our own on others.
- Individual Liberty: protection of your rights and the right of others you work with.
All students and staff are expected to:
- act with courtesy and respect
- contribute to our inclusive and welcoming community
- challenge exclusion and discrimination, and
- take responsibility for resolving problems, seeking support when needed.
Religious freedom
The right to:
- adopt a religion or belief
- practise it without hindrance
- share your faith, and
- change your religion or beliefs
are all key freedoms that everyone should be able to enjoy. Religious freedom is not just the freedom to hold personal thoughts and convictions, but also being able to express them individually or with others, publicly or in private.
LGBTQ+ Rights
The University is committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all students. We offer a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ students and are here to offer support, information, and advice to any LGBTQ+ student who may experience difficulties while studying at York St John.
Freedom of speech
Freedom of speech is the right to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, by any means. Freedom of speech, and the right to freedom of expression, applies to ideas of all kinds, including those which you may disagree with.
Freedom of speech is not, however, an absolute right. York St John is not required to provide a platform for views which are contrary to the civil or criminal law. We have a duty to ensure that staff, students and others who engage with the University are protected from discrimination, harassment and victimisation, and that good relations between individuals and groups are facilitated.
In balancing our responsibilities, in terms of both ensuring freedom of speech and academic freedom, and also protecting student and staff welfare, we will act reasonably and proportional.
Report and Support
Religion-related and LGBTQ+-related harassment and discrimination will not be tolerated. Our anonymous Report and Support process enables any incidents to be reported. This means that we can combat these behaviours. You can find out more on our Report and Support web page.