Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Conference 2022: Inclusive Institutions in Action

The conference:

• created space to engage with previously less-explored, hidden or ‘taboo’ equality issues and examined/encouraged promising practice to address them;
• increased knowledge and confidence in the college and HE sectors to undertake positive action initiatives to tackle inequality and underrepresentation across student bodies, workforce and governance;
• improved institutional capacity to make progress on EDI in an increasingly complex environment;
• engaged with leaders and influencers to foster dialogue on embedding a strategic approach to equality in colleges and higher education institutions

Advance HE has acted as a nexus for thought leadership and research into EDI policy and practice in HE and FE. The underpinning evidence base has been built up by and for the sector and is used to inform the work of policymakers and practitioners. With an ever-growing global community of member institutions and a portfolio of thematic communities with global membership, this conference seeks to promote the learning between individuals with a passion for transforming EDI activity in the sector to achieve real change.

The overarching theme across both days of the conference will be Inclusive Institutions in Action and it will address the following five sub themes: 

Navigating Freedom of Speech and Protection from Harm

David Ruebain, PVC for Culture, Diversity and Inclusion, University of Sussex and Leah Martindale, Equity Liberation and Access Officer, University of Bristol Students' Union also joined the panel.

Free speech, rigorous debate and academic freedom are at the heart of higher education, alongside diversity and inclusion between different groups. Currently attention is being given to the tensions between these responsibilities as the obligations around protecting and upholding freedom of speech and fostering good relations between different groups can sometimes seem to compete. However, both are core to the values and success of our institutions. 

This panel discussion explored these tensions and identify ways in which they can be overcome, ensuring freedom of speech is protected and that we continue to develop university environments that encourage debate and the free exchange of ideas and protecting academic freedom, whilst preventing harassment and fostering mutual respect and inclusion.  

Champions and Change Agents: working with activist energy

Many of the positive changes that are now central to approaches to EDI have been forged by activist groups. The energy and focus of Black Lives Matter, #Metoo, disability and LGBTQ+ movements, as well as staff and student networks and others giving their time and voices to call out injustice, have galvanised the sector to take action and have held institutions accountable for the pace of progress. 

This panel discussion explored what it takes to grow positive relationships between institutions and activist groups, and acknowledges the energy and influence of protest and activism as a force for change. We will hear about the challenges of building trust under public scrutiny and developing appropriate responses to calls for action, and we will consider how valuing student and staff activists can have a positive impact on institutional culture overall.