We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of Professor Jason Arday. 

Jason was a member of the Sociology department at Durham from 2019 to 2022, a committed UCU member, and a treasured teacher and colleague. He won funding and improved processes for racially minoritised postgraduate researchers in the North East through the pro:NE programme, which Jason conceived and developed, and on which he continued to advise in an honorary role from 2022. 

Some members will have worked with Jason on the pro:NE programme, an alliance including Durham University, Newcastle University, Northumbria University, University of Sunderland, and Teesside University formed to widen access and participation for racially minoritised ethnic students and staff in postgraduate research. The programme included doctoral scholarships, measures to address racial bias in admissions, a mentorship scheme, culturally competent mental health support, and professional development workshops for students and staff. pro:NE has had a significant impact for Black and racialised early career academics at Durham and elsewhere, and it has benefited the sector at large by addressing the structural forces that condition and perpetuate academic racism. Durham University has confirmed to us that there is no investigation into Jason’s time at Durham, his work, or his qualifications.

Durham UCU takes an unequivocal anti-racist stance. The scale and character of the media coverage in recent weeks demand scrutiny, and there will be a time for that. Today we remember Jason.

We recognise that Jason’s death will have a significant impact on many of our members, not only those who worked with him closely. We invite members to reach out to departmental reps or to write to help@durhamucu.org.uk if you need support at this time. You can also write to Equalities Officer Rosalind Porter. Please do get in touch. 

The Arday family recognise and support the following: 

💛 The GoFundMe launched by Patrick Vernon

The family ask that donations not be directed elsewhere at this time, and they ask that events, campaigns, and vigils not be organised without the family’s knowledge. 

Rest in power, Professor Jason Arday

Durham UCU