The University of Nottingham Islamic Society today called for the resignation of Craig Cox, Education Officer at the University of Nottingham Students Union. This follows a public demonstration at a Student Union event where Mr. Cox held up a poster which read “Bring Back Slavery”.

President of the University of Nottingham Islamic Society Mohd Zamri Hamid, said today, “It is shocking that the seeds of racism are allowed to be planted on campus, particularly by an individual who has assumed a position of responsibility and claims to represent the students of Nottingham University. Such actions are nothing short of racism, and it is inconceivable that one would attempt to resurrect a dark chapter of human civilisation. Poor judgment or carelessness will not suffice as an excuse and it is without doubt that Craig Cox has single-handedly brought the good name of our University and Union into disrepute with his actions, and for the sake of justice to student representation and his constituents, we call for his resignation with immediate effect.”

This decision has been supported by the Federation of Student Islamic Societies. Nabil Ahmed, Vice-President for Student Affairs at FOSIS, commented today, “This episode of racism has horrified students from all backgrounds on campus, Nottingham and beyond. Let there be no lack of clarity here – racism is unacceptable in any shape of form and with sincere determination and tough decisions must be eradicated from campus, starting today. We completely stand by those students at the University of Nottingham who are calling for the resignation of Craig Cox”.

Nabil Ahmed, FOSIS Vice President for Student Affairs also expressed his concerns over SOAS Students Union motion calling for NUS President Wes Streeting to resign. He said, "What shocks us is that this motion has no foundation at all and racism is being used for political opportunism. Muslim students and Islamic Societies have expressed
nothing less than serious support for current President Wes Streeting, and we have full faith in him to continue to lead the fight against racism in all its forms."

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Notes:

1. The University of Nottingham Islamic Society is the representative body for Muslim students on campus at the University of Nottingham.

2. FOSIS (est. 1962) is the umbrella organisation of student groups in colleges and universities throughout the UK and Ireland, representing over 90,000 Muslim students.

3. For more information please contact FOSIS media on 07786636691, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or alternatively visit our website www.fosis.org.uk