Some people around the world celebrate Diwali, which this year will be on the 14^th November, joined by millions of Hindus, Sikhs and Jains across the world. The Mughals also linked this to Navroz festivities so Muslims celebrated alongside. Diwali, which for some also coincides with harvest and new year celebrations, is a festival of new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali is commonly referred to as the festival of lights since a lot of the celebrations involve big, bold displays of light and colour. The term Deepavali comes from the Sanskrit meaning ‘row or series of lights.’ and is often associated with Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity. Those celebrating the festival will typically decorate their homes with lights and rangolis, elaborate patterns made out of materials including rice, coloured sand and flowers and my favourite part are all those sweets!!!

Here’s a virtual Diwali celebration in London.

Also, the Student Race Equality Steering group mark Islamophobia Awareness month with a virtual display and event – see here

Abyd Quinn-Aziz
Equalities Officer

Many members of staff on fixed-term contracts or contracts with relevant factor, including staff with over 10 years of service, are being made redundant during these difficult times. The University has the obligation to carry out a collective consultation with the unions on the redundancies proposed every trimester. If you are at risk of redundancy, get in touch with us as soon as possible to help us better represent you in these consultations.

REF eligible staff will have received an email on 3rd November entitled “Updated: Real-time REF review – invitation to complete survey”.   Many of us have severe concerns about the effects of REF on workload, wasted resources, pressure on individuals and the directions in which it may push research. This survey will give you the chance to feedback on the effects of the REF, its processes and how it is handled in the university(closing date 16th November).

A message from Margaret Phelan, UCU Wales Official:

“We requested on your behalf that Public Health Wales engage with members to explain their advice to government as it impacts on the post 16 sector in Wales. They have agreed to do that and I am working on your behalf with government officials to arrange an event after the fire break.

I want to ensure that all members are able to suggest questions to be put to Public Health Wales, however the time will be limited and we will need to prioritise those questions most members are keen to have answered.

Could you email your question to Karen Williams on kwilliams@ucu.org.uk and provide some basic information on your job role; union and sector? RESPONSE BY 4pm Thursday 29th October please.

Regards,
Margaret”