We were disappointed, frustrated and upset to read the letter published in The Times on 18 June 2019, in which UK academics seem to argue that treating all students on campus in a respectful and inclusive way somehow impacts on their academic freedom.

We were even more upset to discover that this has been signed by two Salford academics. We believe that this will only make life more difficult for our trans students, on a campus that prides itself on being a welcoming and open place, where everyone should feel at home.

The principles of academic freedom and free speech are, of course, extremely important to all of us and these principles can be upheld while also ensuring that all members of the university community are respected and welcomed. As a students’ union, our number one priority is the wellbeing and happiness of our members – students at the University of Salford. We at the SU were happy to see the statement from the University of Salford on 19 June which made clear that, despite the views of a small number of academics, this is a university that aims to continue on its path to becoming an inclusive campus for all our students, including our trans and non-binary communities. Further, we are proud to have signed the letter published today in the Independent, expressing our support for LGBTQIA+ communities, and our partnerships with charities like Stonewall.

As a students’ union, we want to be clear that the words and actions of this small group of academics are, in our view, transphobic. The group may be small, but it is powerful. The irony that these academics use their privileged access to a national newspaper platform to argue that their right to freedom of speech is being curtailed, is not lost on us. The fact they use this privilege to attempt to silence others is hurtful, and harmful.

Despite the harm that has been done here, it is our aim to work together as a university community of staff and students to make Salford a safe and welcoming place for everyone, and we want to centre trans student voices in that discussion. We spoke with current University of Salford Arts & Media Officer and soon to be returning student, Jon-Connor Lyons said “It’s disappointing to see two University of Salford Academics openly sign this letter. The rights of Trans people and Non-Binary people are not up for debate and I’m happy to see the University double down on their efforts to support students and staff and continue working with Stonewall to make our Salford community inclusive for all.”