31 years of Stephen Lawrence Day
“Justice for Stephen is about all of us, every one of us, in society having justice. There are still too many young people who do not have a sense of hope, who just don’t get the chance to live their dreams. I want all our children and young people to feel inspired, be confident and have hope in their own future. We are building hope but there is more to do.”
Baroness Lawrence, speaking at 20th Anniversary Memorial in 2013
What is the Stephen Lawrence story?
Stephen was just a normal young boy, living life with his parents Neville and Doreen, his brother Stuart and sister Georgina in South-East London. Like many of us, Stephen had many dreams including becoming a successful architect and make a positive impact on the community around him.
Sadly, this never happened. On April 22nd 1993, Stephen was murdered in an unprovoked racial attack. He didn’t know his killers. His killers didn’t know him.
The initial police investigation led to 5 suspects being arrested but not convicted. This led to a public inquiry into the handling of his case in 1998. The publication of the Macpherson Report was then established which is known as “one of the most important moments in the modern history of criminal justice in Britain”.
You can read more about Stephen’s story here.
What can I do?
Today is a day where the NTU community can come together with everyone around the world to honour Stephen’s life and legacy and stand up against discrimination in our daily lives.
NTU will be holding a few events to commemorate this important date:
Hate Crime Session by NTU Police - 22nd April, 1-3pm at City Global Lounge
Awkwright Building Illumination - 22nd April, City Awkwright Building
Panel Discussion: Disappropriation of Black and minoritised children in the Youth Justice System in England and Wales - 24th April, Online
Click here to join the discussion
NTU Moves: Stephen Lawrence Challenge starting on the 22nd April
Download the NTU Moves App to get involved and walk 22,424 steps to mark the date 22.04.24, all in support of the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation (SLDF).
How can I show my solidarity?
You can show your solidarity by putting up a social post on your Instagram.
Click here to find the official Stephen Lawrence Socials Toolkit with story and post templates.
Feeling discriminated, bullied or harassed whilst studying at NTU?
Our Information and Advice Service (IAS) offers dedicated support for students who have experienced discrimination, harassment, bullying, and hate crimes.
You can learn more about our specialised services by clicking here.
