Professor Alice Sullivan has threatened legal action against the University of Bristol, alleging the institution failed to protect her right to freedom of expression during a lecture on sex and gender. The event, held in October, was disrupted by protesters who climbed walls, banged on windows, shouted through megaphones, and set off fire alarms.
Sullivan, a professor at University College London, said the university had 15 months to plan the event but failed to choose a venue that would have allowed it to proceed safely. She claimed restrictions, including an alleged ban on undergraduate attendance, marginalised the event and deterred some attendees who felt intimidated.
In a letter before action sent to the university and the Office for Students, Sullivan argued that peaceful protest must not amount to a 'heckler's veto' that shuts down others' right to speak. She told the BBC she was 'prepared to take legal action' to demonstrate that universities can host a wide range of views.
A University of Bristol spokesperson refuted the claims, stating the seminar went ahead safely with appropriate measures in place. They acknowledged 'unacceptable disruption' but said every action taken was in support of free speech and public safety. Sullivan later met with the vice-chancellor to discuss the incident.
Sullivan has previously criticised UK universities for failing to protect gender-critical academics from bullying and research restrictions. Her March 2025 review for the Conservative government recommended that data on biological sex and gender identity be recorded as distinct categories.
