► Equality and Diversity

 

At NUSU we are committed to being here for everyone or anyone. We do not discriminate and we are proud at the diversity on campus. We encourage students to respect each other and to not discriminate against other people.

Below is some basic information that everyone should read and follow in order to achieve this:

What does equality actually mean?

Equality is not about ‘treating people the same’. It is more about giving everyone the equal chance to contribute and participate.

Here is an example of direct discrimination:

Where a person of one sex or race is treated less favourably, on the grounds of sex or race, than a person of the opposite sex or another racial group is, or would be, treated in similar circumstances.

Here is an example of indirect discrimination:

Where a condition or requirement, whether intentional or not, is applied to persons of both sexes or all races, but a considerably smaller proportion of persons of one sex or racial group can comply with it.

   What is diversity?

Diversity focuses on treating people as individuals, rather than focussing on groups of people.

Don't sterotype people. Religion, cultures, beliefs, skin colour, interests etc don't make people the same. There is diversity within groups!

Culture shock

Bare in mind that some studsents have moved from a familiar to an unfamiliar culture. Different things can make the transisition hard and confusing. Make sure you are aware of these changes and try to help where you can.

Here are a few of the major differences in cultures that may make the transition to the UK difficult:

Climate change

Food - different food types and diet

Language - accent slang words, loose use of offensive words

Dress - more or less revieling, different styles and colours

Social roles - equality between men and women. relationship with elders.

‘Rules’ of behaviour - body language, greating people i.e. shaking hands or nodding.

Values - religion, family values, friendship.

These are just a few examples and as stated before not all international students will experience difficulties, some will adapt straight away. Don't assume one way or another...if you are unsure then simply ask