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London: Thousands of mourners gathered in Trafalgar Square, London, to pay respect to former Cambridge University lecturer Jason Arday, who died aged 41 following weeks of intense public and media scrutiny.
The vigil, arranged by the advocacy organization Stand Up to Racism, saw mourners drop flowers and wave placards reading ‘Rest in Power, Professor Jason Arday’ and condemning racism in the media. Supporters accused the press of relentlessly and racistly scrutinising Arday prior to his death.
Arday, who became Cambridge's youngest Black professor in 2023, resigned from his job as professor of sociology of education on August 5 due to suspicions of plagiarism and inconsistencies in his career narrative. He denied the plagiarism accusations even though admitting errors in his academic work.
He was found dead at his residence in south London on August 14. Police say his death was unexpected, but it is not being investigated as suspicious. His death has triggered a broader debate about racism, media coverage, and the status of Black academics in Britain.
Speakers at the vigil, including politicians and activists, urged increased accountability and reflection in light of the tremendous scrutiny Arday has undergone. His death has also raised additional issues about Cambridge's treatment of the charges and its duty of care to him.
