Equality, diversity and inclusion

The School of Literature and Languages is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) and the advancement of anti-discriminatory practices in relation to all aspects of teaching and research. We believe that the study of languages, linguistics, literatures, creative writing and translation should be open to all.

Overview

Equality, diversity and inclusion in the School of Literature and Languages shares the University of Surrey’s commitment to:

Equal opportunities
A diverse and inclusive culture
Eradicating discrimination
Eliminating harassment and bullying.

This applies to staff, students, alumni and everyone associated with the School, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation.

EDI Committee

The EDI Committee identifies, discusses and progresses equality, diversity and inclusivity issues within the School, its research, and the curricula. It organises training events and shares best practice.

Chair

Professor Diane Watt

Professor of Medieval Literature

Staff

Dr Liz Bahs

Lecturer in Creative Writing

Dr Oliver Bond

Reader in Linguistics

Dr Gabriele Lazzari

Lecturer in Contemporary Literature

Dr Lena Mattheis

Lecturer in Contemporary Literature

Dr Amy Morgan

Lecturer in Medieval Literature

Shihong Turner

Teaching Fellow in Chinese

Students

Deborah Davies

Postgraduate Research Student

Mx Frances Hallam

Postgraduate Research Student

Juwayriyah Hussain

Undergraduate Student

Stephen Newell

Postgraduate Research Student

Beth Roberts

Postgraduate Research Student

What we have done

Since 2020, we have been working on making the School of Literature and Languages more diverse and inclusive. So far we have:

Set up a working group on 'Further Decolonizing the Curriculum' which includes student focus groups
Committed to an ongoing process of regularly reviewing our curriculum to ensure its inclusivity
Organised Antiracism Training led by Maxine Thomas-Assante for the teaching teams in English and in Languages
Organised a staff forum on Teaching Sensitive Topics
Organised staff follow-up sessions on antiracism.

Awards