Stephen Lawrence Day 2026
On April 22, Queen Mary proudly marks Stephen Lawrence Day for the 4th year with a dedicated programme of reflection, education, and action.
Established to honour the life and legacy of Stephen Lawrence, a Black teenager whose racially motivated murder in 1993 exposed institutional failings and sparked a national conversation on race and justice, Stephen Lawrence Day challenges us to continue striving for an equitable society. At Queen Mary, we recognise the vital importance of standing against racism and working towards a fairer, more inclusive future for all. Our programme brings together students, staff, and the wider community to engage in meaningful dialogue, share experiences, and spotlight the ongoing need for systemic change. Through our pledges, talks, and creative expression, we aim not only to remember Stephen, but to inspire positive action in his name. This year’s events are rooted in our collective commitment to social justice and in empowering individuals to make a difference, both within the University and beyond.
Established to honour the life and legacy of Stephen Lawrence, a Black teenager whose racially motivated murder in 1993 exposed institutional failings and sparked a national conversation on race and justice, Stephen Lawrence Day challenges us to continue striving for an equitable society. At Queen Mary, we recognise the vital importance of standing against racism and working towards a fairer, more inclusive future for all.
''At Queen Mary, we are proud of the diversity within our community, with over 170 nationalities represented and 77% of our undergraduate students coming from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds. The anniversary of the murder of Stephen Lawrence is a reminder of the need to confront all forms of racism and to continue striving for equity. It also reinforces our collective responsibility to lead with integrity and compassion. Inclusive leadership and active allyship are essential to creating a culture where everyone feels safe, respected, and able to thrive.
By speaking up, challenging discriminatory behaviour, and supporting one another, we help build a community that truly reflects our values.”
- Dr Philippa Lloyd, Vice-Principal (Policy and Strategic Partnerships)
Allyship to Action - Panel
Join us on 22nd April at 12.00 - 13.00 for an interactive panel discussing what does it mean to be an ally in a meaningful way and what can QMUL do better to further racial equality. Ask a question to the panel here by the 21st April for consideration.
Panellists will include:
- Dr Andromachi Georgosouli – Reader in Financial Law and Regulation for CCLS and EDI Lead for Humanities and Social Sciences.
- Bhagirathi Shah - Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Data Analyst
- Professor Claudia Garetto – Prof in School of Mathematics and EDI Lead for the Faculty of Science and Engineering
- Eshwinder Singh – VP President Welfare of the Students’ Union
- Leonie Malvo - Strategic HR Business Partner
Race Equality Toolkit
This Toolkit has been developed as one of a number of initiatives to highlight the importance of promoting anti-racist practices, valuing cultural diversity and in providing an appropriate and professional service to all people irrespective of colour, culture or ethnic origin. The Toolkit acknowledges the work of everyone at Queen Mary who is committed to the promotion and advancement of race equality and anti-racism and would like to thank the many students and staff concerned for their valuable contributions and input.
If you would like to see anything added for our next updated release in October 2026, please email HR-Equality@qmul.ac.uk.
Download the toolkit by clicking this link: Race Equality Toolkit v1 2026 [PDF 4,799KB]
Educational Resources
Below are a list of resources you can use to learn more about Stephen Lawrence:
- BBC Documentary 'The Murder That Changed a Nation'
- Guardian article 'Macpherson report: what was it and what impact did it have?' by Ben Quinn
- The Monitoring Group and Undercover Policing Inquiry
- Stephen Lawrence Reading List 2026 by the Stephen Lawrence Research Centre
If you would like us to add one, please email HR-Equality@qmul.ac.uk.
Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation
You can find out more about Stephen Lawrence legacy and support the foundation in his memory: Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation: A Legacy For Change.
