You will have received an email invitation to UCU’s Equality Conference in Newcastle, Thursday 26th to Saturday 28th November. We strongly encourage members to attend in order to shape the discussions and learn from others. Women’s rights, disability rights, trans rights, migrant rights and minority ethnic people are all under attack within the our institutions, society and from government. The rise of the far right with the increased action on We need to ensure that UCU takes on these vital arguments and pushes for change.
The Equality Conference is a rare opportunity to meet and organise with UCU members from across the country through the women, disabled, Black, LGBT+ and migrant members’ strands.
There will be debates, speakers, elections to Members’ Standing Committees and a plenary bringing all the equality strands together. Most importantly, it is a chance to share experiences, build solidarity and organise for change. Equality is central to our union. We need to build that through the grassroots.
It also brings together activists at different stages of their union involvement. Whether you are an experienced rep, new to activism, between roles or retired, there is something to learn and contribute.
Get involved
Members’ Standing Committees develop campaigns, research and motions for UCU Congress and Sector Conference. For newer activists, they are a great way to build confidence, develop organising skills and connect with activists across the UK.
And if you are considering standing for the NEC in future, the conference is a crucial opportunity to build those networks and create links to Equality for your members.
Don’t let barriers stop you
We recognise that travel and attending in person can be difficult, particularly for disabled members and those with caring responsibilities. Sessions are hybrid, reasonable adjustments can be arranged, and eligible travel expenses are reimbursed by UCU.
If you are unsure whether you can attend, talk to a UCU Left member before ruling yourself out.
The deadline to register is Monday 26 October at 5 pm. [https://ucu.wufoo.com/forms/the-annual-equality-groups-conference-2026/]
We need to organise together
Last year’s separate equality events in London made it harder for members who belong to more than one equality strand to participate fully. Intersectional struggles require intersectional organising.
With racism, misogyny and transphobia increasingly overt, we need spaces where we can come together, debate, organise and develop strategies for resistance.