In memory of Brianna Ghey we will be holding vigils at each of our campuses for students and staff to come and pay their respects. Full details of each vigil can be found below.
In memory of Brianna Ghey we will be holding vigils at each of our campuses for students and staff to come and pay their respects. Full details of each vigil can be found below.
Cambridge Campus
Thursday 23rd February, 17:30 in the Ruskin Courtyard.
An opportunity for students and staff to pay their respects, light a candle, and talk about any experiences or feelings they wish to share. Free hot drinks available in the SU space afterwards.
Chelmsford Campus
Thursday 23rd February, 14:00 - 15:00, SU Space, first floor, Tindal building.
An opportunity for students and staff to pay their respects and talk about any experiences or feelings they wish to share.
Peterborough Campus
Thursday 23rd February, 11:00 - 15:00 on the ground floor atrium.
A table will be set up with a reflection tree and LED candles for students and staff to reflect on there feelings and pay their respects.
London Campus
Thursday 23rd February, 13:00 - 14:00, outside the SU office. Room 306, 3rd floor of Import Building, East India.
An opportunity for students and staff to pay their respects and ask any questions or raise concerns.
About Brianna Ghey
Brianna Ghey was a young transgender woman, 16 years old, who was found murdered on Saturday the 11th of February, 2023.
Brianna was described as "strong, fearless and one of a kind" by her family, and her passing has left "a massive hole in their hearts."
Transgender; non-binary, and gender-diverse people across the UK, and the rest of the world, face increasing discrimination over their legal rights; access to life-changing medical aid, and representation in media.
Brianna was truly a soul full of life and courage. To live as her truest self so publically from a young age, in spite of both the national climate for transgender people in the UK and the bullying she faced from her peers simply because she was trans.
ARU Students' Union prides itself on being an organisation that represents and works for all its members. Regardless of their race, religion, nationality, disabilities, sexuality, and indeed gender identity. We grieve the fact that Brianna was never given the chance to experience university and higher education, to make friends; discover passions, and potentially go out to change the world for the better.
The Union has created these spaces in Cambridge; Chelmsford; Peterborough, and London, for remembrance and reflection. For Brianna and the many people from minority groups and backgrounds who have been lost to violence across the world.
We ask that all here be respectful of her memory, and be mindful of those who may be here in remembrance. If you wish to light a candle in memory of Brianna, or anyone else who has been lost to violence, please do so.
The Students' Union can help you find organisations to talk to, should you need it but don't know where to go. Please visit our offices if you do and we will do what we can for you.
Love and solidarity,
ARU Students' Union.