The publication of the University of Edinburgh’s Race Review is a landmark moment in this ancient institution’s willingness and determination to learn from its past, as well as its present, in order to shape its future.
The University of Edinburgh acknowledges its role not only in profiting materially from practices and systems that caused so much suffering but also in contributing to the production and perpetuation of racialised thought which significantly impacted ethnically and racially minoritised communities.
On behalf of the institution, I extend our deepest apologies to all individuals and communities impacted by the legacies of our connections to enslavement and colonialism.
We cannot have selective memory about our past, focusing only on the historical achievements which make us feel proud. We are right to address its complexities too, and learn from those aspects which are highly challenging to confront. Only by fully engaging with and understanding the entirety of our institutional past can we truly learn and move forward. We are unwavering in our commitment to a future where racism, racial discrimination, and racialised inequalities have no place in higher education or society. The findings of the Race Review will help to inform our evolving policies and practices as we design a University fit for the future.
Our institutional vision embodies a proactive approach to fostering an environment of racial equality and justice, through our research, teaching, improved institutional practices and community engagement. We will also continue to strengthen our global partnerships, recognising that we do not have all of the answers ourselves and that building progressive, consultative and equitable relationships is crucial.
I am deeply grateful to everyone that contributed to the University of Edinburgh’s Race Review, and in particular to Professor Tommy Curry, Dr Nicola Frith and Chris Cox who led the various sections, to community members for their active involvement in discussions and workshops and also to the Steering Group chaired originally by Sir Geoff Palmer: Geoff sadly died in June 2025 but he had seen the draft report and he and I reflected together on the importance of this work, and its legacy, very shortly before his death. We will honour his memory through our ongoing commitment and contribution to advancing race equality within our institution and in society more broadly.