The letter follows the suspension of Sydney University Professor of Poetry Barry Spur, after the New Matilda website published his emails which reportedly involved racist and sexist language.
Sydney University's Associate Professor Bronwyn Winter said she is aware of situations where staff didn't receive support when they've spoken out against discrimination.
"The complaint hasn't been picked up; an investigation hasn't been carried out; it hasn't been pursued," she told the ABC.
"The staff member has not been given support for example if there's a student who expresses racist or sexist views against a teacher. The teachers don't always feel that they're getting support from senior colleagues."
She said people are afraid of retribution if they do speak out.
"I think that is the case, and I know there have been cases where there have been communications by senior management at universities - and I'm sure it's not just the University of Sydney - to staff where they are warned against criticising the university in public."
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