This morning, the College released a redacted version of the 2020 investigation report into allegations of bullying made against the President and CFO. It makes for grim reading.
Alongside the specific incidents of bullying referred to, the report paints a picture of a culture at the top of the institution without empathy, in which exclusion and disrespect are practiced and encouraged by the most senior leaders.
As student representatives, we almost daily hear complaints from students who feel they have been treated unkindly – whether through bullying by other students or supervisors, or in being shown no empathy when seeking help. While the majority of our community regularly demonstrate kindness and respect, those few that do not contribute to a sense of ‘endemic’ mistreatment that is felt by students and staff alike.
There will be many reading this report who see reflections of their own experiences, and who will rightly connect the most negative aspects of the culture throughout the College with the poor example demonstrated by its leadership. Many will also question whether it is worth disclosing their own experiences through a formal complaint, when severe cases of mistreatment do not have more significant consequences.
Last year, the Union Council formally called for the resignation of President Alice Gast and Chief Financial Officer Muir Sanderson over the confirmed bullying incidents. Today’s report shows clearly why their position remains untenable.
Despite this stance, we want to make clear that we echo John Allan’s concerns about the abuse and threats that Alice Gast has been subject to. These are always, wholly, unacceptable.
The culture change initiatives that have progressed over the last year, such as Imperial Together, are valuable and genuinely well-meaning. The Union will continue to support these fully. But many in the Imperial community – ourselves included – will be asking, “is it enough”?
Is it enough?
Lloyd, Sam, Nathalie, India, and Daniel
Officer Trustees
