LUCAS statement #BlackLivesMatter

The Leeds University Centre for African Studies is deeply upset about recent events in the United States. We condemn police brutality and state violence against black people. We support those protesting against white supremacy and systematic racial injustice, and demonstrating for the recognition that black lives matter.

We are very aware that these issues are not restricted to the US, but can also be found in our UK society, including in the higher education sector and the field of African Studies. We acknowledge the courage of black academics and students who, at this moment and in the past, have spoken out against institutional racism. LUCAS is committed to transforming our field and our institution. We do so by making critical contributions to the student curriculum, enhancing research agendas that engage with race, power and decoloniality, supporting BAME and African students and staff, and in trying to build an institutional and academic culture based on principles of equality and inclusion.

Institutional change is slow and LUCAS’ resources are limited. But whatever influence we have, we commit to using it in support of the cause of racial justice.