Honouring Professor Jason Arday
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Professor Jason Arday, a visionary scholar, educator and advocate whose work reshaped conversations about race, disability, education and justice in the UK. Jason’s achievements were extraordinary, but it was his humanity, generosity and commitment to uplifting others that made him so widely admired.
His story has resonated across the country because it reflects a reality many Black people know intimately. Racism is not abstract, it is lived. It shows up in schools, workplaces, universities, media coverage and everyday interactions. It accumulates over years, shaping our health, our opportunities and our sense of safety. Racism is a slow killer, and more people need to understand the toll it takes.
Jason’s treatment in the press was a painful reminder of this. Over 200 articles were published about him, an excessive, unnecessary and racialised fixation that served to humiliate, discredit and “put a Black man in his place.” Major outlets unquestioningly amplified claims rooted in racism, taking the word of an individual with openly racist beliefs and showcasing, once again, how deeply racism is embedded in parts of the media landscape. This was not responsible journalism. It was harm.
Institutions must also be held to account. The University of Cambridge failed in its duty of care to a colleague. Jason was left exposed to a media storm that escalated without meaningful intervention or safeguarding. Leadership must confront the racism within their own structures the cultures, decisions and silences that allowed a Black professor to be publicly torn apart without protection. Cambridge, and all organisations, must interrogate how their systems enable harm, and commit to doing better for their Black staff.
We send our deepest condolences to Jason’s family, loved ones, colleagues and all those grieving his loss. We hold you in our hearts.
At Thelma Matilda Alves Foundation, we remain committed to creating spaces of care, healing and solidarity.
May Professor Jason Arday rest in power. May his legacy continue to inspire courage, accountability and collective care.
Sign the petition to call on the government to commission a public inquiry: https://goodlawproject.org/petition/jason-arday-letter/
