As the UK’s European university, Kent values intellectual and cultural diversity. We are proud to be an outward-facing and international institution with more than 25% of our students and over 20% of staff coming from outside the UK. For academic and research staff, the figure is even higher at 37%. Our international community not only contributes to our teaching, learning, research and campus experience, but also to the economy, culture and social fabric of the region. Many go on to become global ambassadors for the University and the region.

On 20 February 2017, there will be a national day of action to celebrate the contribution migrants make in the UK. The national organisers of One Day Without Us have called for a single unifying action to take place at 13.00. Participants in communities across the UK are invited to link arms or hold up placards to show their support, and to share this moment via social media using #1daywithoutus

Along with a number of other universities across the UK, staff and students at Kent are organising an event to recognise the contribution made by our international community. Anyone wishing to take part during their lunch-hour is welcome to join a gathering in front of the Registry (the Student Reception side) at the Canterbury campus from 12.30 -13.15. The organisers have also invited those attending to eat their lunch in Rutherford Dining Hall where tables have been reserved.

Please contact Mary Hughes at M.P.Hughes@kent.ac.uk for further details about the Kent event and you can find out more about One Day Without Us at http://www.1daywithoutus.org/