Student body praying for an end to discrimination

The failure of many third-level institutions in Ireland to designate essential prayer room facilities for non-Irish nationals has been criticised by the Union of Students in Ireland (USI). For students from immigrant backgrounds, discrimination by default is a form of racism particular to the college environment. Unlike most Christian students, many others are obligated by their religious beliefs to pray at certain times during weekdays, so discrimination occurs when colleges fail to provide multi­faith spiritual rooms that cater to everyone. The main image of racism is of bigots intentionally treating others differently, but discrimination by default is a different type of racism involving inaction. Students have a fundamental right to pray during the study day. Sincerely, Union of Students in Ireland, Ceann Aras na Mac Leinn, Grattan Street, Dublin 2