News, Uncategorised

‘Jazz hands’ policy draws nation’s attention to University of Manchester

0 263

By Ben Thompson
Photography: Vita Student


The University of Manchester Students’ Union found itself at the centre of a national controversy, this week. A recent policy, voted through the Senate with a two-third majority, resolved to “swap audible clapping out for British Sign Language clapping at SU events”.

BSL clapping – in which individuals twist their hands in a manner akin to ‘Jazz hands’ – has long been incorporated into events to be inclusive to deaf audiences and those uncomfortable with loud noises (primarily people with anxiety or autism). The Student Union asserts that their policy came about as a way of being more inclusive towards disabled students.

An extremely vocal backlash followed, spearheaded by many of the country’s most prominent tabloid newspapers. Television presenter Piers Morgan took the opportunity to attack the policy on Good Morning Britain and tweeted ‘Britain’s losing its mind’. The BBC North West account also received thousands of retweets and replies, many of which were critical in nature.

However, the Student Union has published a response insisting that the policy has been greatly misunderstood.

They state that the policy would have no bearing on gigs, theatre productions or sporting events. The Student Union has also clarified that there is no ‘ban on audible clapping’ as many news outlets and pundits have suggested. They reiterate that the policy only seeks to encourage the BSL clapping, rather than enforcing any restrictions on clapping.

Despite the negative backlash, the Student Union is standing by their policy, stating that they have received “many positive responses from disabled students, who were delighted to feel more included in our democratic process”. The Union claims that the policy has led to many of these students participating in events for the first time.

The Union invites all students to get involved in the democratic process and share their ideas in making the university more inclusive for everybody. The next senate meeting will be held on the 8th November, and all members of the University Students’ Union are welcome to attend.

About the author / 

Ben Thompson

Modern History student. Mostly writes about politics and social issues.

Leave a reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More News Stories:

  • Ten love songs that aren’t just about heartbreak

    Featured image: James Kelly  It seems we’re all unanimous in saying that love is one of those mystifying, uncontrollable forces of nature, and this is not a new sentiment. See the entire discography of music and poetic works dating back to ancient times and earlier (or your ‘sad’ playlist – which we all have) for proof. Despite…

  • A Complete Unknown film review – An enigmatic portrayal of a musical luminary

    Featured image: Press A Complete Unknown is an evocative musical commentary and expertly crafted biopic following the life of Bob Dylan as he transitioned from acoustic to electric guitar. For what is both an intimate portrayal of genius and a harsh critique of character, both Timothée Chalamet and James Mangold hit the nail on the…

  • 5 tips for sustainable student living

    Featured illustration: Ruby Sharp 1. Mindful clothes shopping The fashion industry significantly contributes to overconsumption, with 92 million tonnes of clothing ending up in landfill each year. To be more sustainable, clothes consider buying and selling clothes on platforms like Vinted. These apps provide a great opportunity to make extra cash while keeping your clothes…

  • Love Story Movie Marathon: Top 10 films to watch this Valentine’s Day

    Featured image: Loe Moshkovska Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to break the bank. Grab your popcorn and blankets to enjoy a laid-back movie night. Whether you’re cozying up to a loved one or having a movie night for galantines, we have you covered with the best watches for this Valentine’s Day. These romantic movies are set…