Staff Guidance – Responding to and Reporting Racist Incidents
Dublin City University is committed to ensuring a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all staff and students. Racism in any form is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
DCU prioritises the safety and wellbeing of its students and staff at all times. The university works closely with An Garda Síochána’s Diversity Unit, local authorities, and community organisations to ensure the highest possible safety standards for our community.
This guidance outlines the steps staff can take if they witness, experience, or receive reports of racist incidents, whether on campus or in the wider community.
1. In an Emergency
On Campus – Contact DCU Security
24/7 presence on campus.
Phone: 01 700 5999 (emergency on campus)
Email: security@dcu.ie
SafeZone App
Free for all DCU students and staff.
Connects you directly to DCU Security or emergency services with one tap.
Allows Security to locate you quickly in an emergency.
Download: safezoneapp.com (register with your DCU email).
Off Campus – Contact An Garda Síochána for criminal incidents
Gardaí / Ambulance / Fire: 999 or 112 (free from any phone).
See also: Active Threat Guidance for DCU’s advice on responding to rare but serious security situations.
2. Reporting Racist Incidents
You can report incidents through:
- DCU Speak Out – Anonymous Report & Support Tool – For all forms of bullying, harassment, sexual misconduct, racism, and discrimination.
- Irish Network Against Racism (INAR) – iReport.ie national racist incident reporting system.
- Garda Online Hate Crime Reporting – Submit directly to An Garda Síochána.
3. If You Witness Racism
If you witness someone being racially abused:
Do: Support the victim, de-escalate if safe, seek help from security or Gardaí.
Don’t: Engage in confrontation that risks your safety or the safety of others.
Watch this short video on being an active bystander to build confidence in responding safely and effectively.
See also: the Irish Network Against Racism’s tips on bystander intervention.
4. Additional Supports for Staff
- Dignity & Respect Policy and Toolkit – DCU’s policy and procedures on preventing and addressing bullying, harassment, sexual misconduct, racism and discrimination.
- Race Equality Action Working Group – Leading the development of DCU’s Race Equality Action Plan.
- Employee Assistance Service – Free, confidential counselling and wellbeing support.
- Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Unit – Advice, policy guidance, and support.
Remember:
Your action can make a difference. Speaking up, offering solidarity, and reporting incidents all contribute to a safer, more inclusive community.