Kia ora,
The OUSA Exec are aware of reports from students alleging white supremacist activity in Dunedin. At this stage, it is not clear whether these groups have any involvement with Otago students. While there is currently no confirmed connection, we believe it is important to keep our student community informed and encourage everyone to remain vigilant.
We encourage students to take sensible precautions, including avoiding walking alone at night where possible. If you witness suspicious or threatening behaviour, or if you feel that you or someone else is in immediate danger, please call 111 and contact Campus Watch (0800 479 5000) as soon as possible. If you experience a hate crime of any kind, you can still report it even if you were unable to identify the person or only remember limited details about them.
For more support options don’t hesitate to reach out to OUSA Student Support or contact the OUSA executive at welfare@ousa.org.nz and president@ousa.org.nz.
OUSA stands firmly against racism, hate, and intimidation in all its forms. Every student deserves to feel safe, respected, and welcome on our campus, regardless of their race, ethnicity, culture, or background.
To our Māori, Pasifika, African, Asian, Middle Eastern, and all other students of colour in our community: we stand with you. We encourage all students to continue looking out for one another and to stand together in solidarity against hate.
If you wish to report student misconduct of any kinds, you can report it to any of the entities listed above or the Proctor (proctor@otago.ac.nz).
We will continue to monitor the situation and share further information if appropriate. In the meantime, please take care of yourselves and those around you.
Noho ora mai,
OUSA Exec
