Inclusivity Statement

Our visison of EDI

The School of Computer Science aims to be an inclusive and professional community, respectful of all participants, and free of discrimination, harassment, and bullying. We believe that an inclusive and respectful atmosphere is vital to free expression and the open exchange of ideas. Further, freedom of belief, thought and expression are paramount in achieving this inclusivity. 

The School believes in inclusivity: a policy of including people who might otherwise be excluded, disadvantaged, or marginalised. This includes legally protected characteristics – age, disability, gender identity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation – but can manifest along a much broader set of attributes, such as culture, nationality, first languages, seniority, and socioeconomic status. 

Ways you can be a supportive member of the community include, but are not limited to: 

  • Consider that members of our community have differing perspectives, and therefore something that you think is acceptable can make someone else uncomfortable. 
  • Challenge unacceptable behaviours (such as those outlined below) if you feel safe and able to do so. 
  • Check up on people who may have been affected by unacceptable behaviour. 

Expectations

The School expects all its members to treat others with respect and consideration. The School’s expectations are underpinned by the Equality Act 2010, the University of Birmingham Fairness and Diversity Policy, the University of Birmingham Harassment and Bullying Policy, and the University of Birmingham Equality Diversity and Inclusion Scheme. These expectations apply to all events and communication in the School, whether academic or social, in-person or online.  

Unacceptable behaviours include, but are not limited to: 

  • Offensive comments or jokes, insults, or derogatory or stereotypical remarks.  

  • Disrespectful gestures, images, text, or words. 

  • Ridiculing, undermining or bullying behaviour. 

  • Inappropriate or unwanted physical contact. 

  • Intimidating, coercive or threatening actions. 

  • Unwelcome sexual advances. 

  • Intrusive questions or comments about a person’s private life, or malicious gossip. 

  • Harassing photography or recording. 

  • Disrespectful sustained disruption of talks, lectures, and discussions. 

  • Encouraging any of the above behaviours.