We, the students of the University of Worcester, are writing to express our serious concern regarding the recent statements from the University about the St George’s Cross flags displayed outside St John’s Campus, and the associated racist context of the Raise the Colours movement.

The University’s emails have repeatedly affirmed values such as democracy, inclusion, and opposition to racism. While these statements are important in principle, they fail to address the specific reality of a well-documented far-right campaign that uses national symbols to intimidate and threaten minority communities, including international students, students of colour, and LGBTQ+ students. By claiming that no one knows the intent of the flags, the University effectively denies the known racist context and the very real fear that these symbols can cause.

The follow-up response to concerns raised similarly relied on general statements of values and invited students to report feeling unsafe. This places the burden on the affected individuals rather than demonstrating institutional responsibility. True safeguarding requires acknowledging the specific threat, informing the community, and taking proactive steps to ensure safety. Abstract values alone are not sufficient.

We therefore call on the University to take immediate and meaningful action by:

Publicly acknowledging the Raise the Colours movement and its use of the St George’s Cross to intimidate minority groups.

Implementing proactive measures to protect students and staff from harassment, intimidation, and racialised threats by proactively contacting the council to get the removed.

Communicating to the University community in a way that recognises and validates the harm caused, rather than relying solely on broad statements of principle.

We affirm that students, staff, and visitors must be able to feel safe and valued on campus, without having to justify fear in the face of a known far-right campaign. Values are meaningless without action, and the University must now demonstrate its commitment to inclusion, safety, and accountability in practice.

We invite the University to engage with this letter and respond publicly, demonstrating that it is prepared to confront discrimination directly and protect all members of its community.