Dear colleagues and community members,
We, trainee clinical psychologists, students and teaching staff at the University of Southampton, feel compelled to address the disturbing events which happened over the summer and express our unwavering support for refugees, immigrants, and all members of our diverse community. We understand that people may also be experiencing anxiety in relation to the recent UK and US elections, where divisive political rhetoric and polarising campaign strategies have increasingly scapegoated immigrant communities and fuelled xenophobic narratives.
The US presidential election cycle has further intensified existing societal tensions, with campaign rhetoric often targeting immigrant populations and stoking fears about demographic changes. Such political discourse can exacerbate trauma for refugees and immigrants, who may feel particularly vulnerable and re-traumatised by public narratives that challenge their right to safety and belonging.
In our clinical work, we regularly engage with adults and children who have sought refuge in our country, having already endured the trauma of violence, conflict, and perilous journeys. Many of our patients grapple with severe anxiety and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as a result of their experiences. Our role is to provide a safe, supportive environment for healing and recovery.
However, we have observed with great concern the detrimental impact that recent events and societal attitudes are having on our patients, carers, parents, and even our professional clinical colleagues in various services. The rise in racist rhetoric and violent incidents in our communities is not only deeply troubling but also directly undermines the therapeutic work we strive to accomplish.
We want to emphasise in the strongest possible terms that the racism and violence we have witnessed in our communities is absolutely unacceptable. These actions do not represent our values, our profession, or the majority of our society. We stand united in our support of refugees, immigrants, and all members of our community, regardless of their background or origin.
As mental health professionals, we recognise the profound psychological harm caused by discrimination, fear, and social isolation. We also understand the critical importance of social support and community acceptance in the healing process for those who have experienced trauma.
Therefore, we pledge to:
Continue providing compassionate, culturally sensitive care to all our patients, regardless of their background.
Advocate for the rights and well-being of refugees and immigrants within our professional capacity.
Actively work to combat racism and discrimination in our workplaces and communities.
Collaborate with community organisations to promote understanding, empathy, and social cohesion.
Support initiatives that provide education about the experiences of refugees and the value of diversity in our society.
Challenge and respond to political narratives that dehumanise or marginalise immigrant and refugee populations, recognising the psychological harm caused by systemic discrimination and exclusionary political discourse.
We call upon our colleagues in the university, the mental health professions, other healthcare workers, and all members of our community to support us in this stance. You may wish to add your name to this letter and/or strive to implement these pledges in your workspaces. Together, we can create a society that truly welcomes and supports those seeking safety and a better life, recognising that our diversity is our strength.
In solidarity,
Bridges Not Barriers