Southampton students union president resigns after vowing to paint over First World War mural

‘I acted impulsively and fully accept how careless and hurtful my words were,’ says Emily Dawes

The Rothenstein Mural is a memorial to all members of British universities who served in the Great War (University of Southampton)

A students union president who sparked outrage after she threatened to paint over a university mural dedicated to First World War soldiers has resigned.

Emily Dawes tweeted last month that she would take down, or paint over, the “mural of white men” at the University of Southampton.

The union president had previously apologised for the upset caused by her comments on the artwork, which shows a young soldier being given a degree.

Her resignation comes after more than 21,000 people signed a petition calling on Ms Dawes to resign.

Some critics described her comments as “disrespectful” and “ignorant”.

She had originally tweeted: “Mark my words – we’re taking down the mural of white men in the uni Senate room, even if I have to paint over it myself.”

Alongside a photograph of the mural, she wrote: “ONE OF THE WOMEN JUST SAID ‘it’s nearly armistice day so are we covering up this tapestry??’ AND HOLY S***. F*** YES. GRL PWER £sotonsenatelive”.

Painted by Sir William Rothenstein in 1916, the mural was a memorial to members of British universities who served in the war and was presented to Southampton in 1959 by the artist’s son.

Announcing her resignation, Ms Dawes said: “After careful consideration I’ve decided that it’s best if I step down from my role. I sincerely apologise for the offence and disrespect caused by my earlier comments, which were misinformed. I acted impulsively and as such fully accept how careless and hurtful my words were.

“I’ve had a wonderful time as president and am sad to be leaving. All my thanks go to everyone who has supported me throughout my presidency, and I wish the team and the union all the best.”

At the time of the incident, a University of Southampton spokesperson said Ms Dawes’ comments did not represent the views of the university.

Following the resignation, the institution tweeted that it respected her decision and will continue to provide her with support.

It added: “The university will continue to work closely with the students union, the elected team and staff.”

The role of union president will remain vacant for the remainder of the 2018-19 academic year, with nominations for 2019-20 opening in January.