Community gathering: Supporting each other in these difficult times

The past few weeks have been extremely difficult for many members of our community following the murder of six Muslim-Canadians in their place of worship last week, and the U.S. ban on citizens from seven Muslim-majority countries. Both tragic events have deeply impacted us all - as students, faculty, and staff. People are feeling a range of emotions, from fear of being personally targeted, deep sadness, pain, and general uncertainty.

Examining exclusion

We acknowledge that for many marginalized groups, these are longstanding feelings that have been exacerbated by these recent events. As we celebrate Black History Month, we are called to examine the anti-Black racism that exists, not only south of the border in the U.S. but in Canada as well. This month, we honour the contributions of Black Canadians who have contributed to building this nation. In thinking about our Muslim and Black community members on campus at this time, we must also acknowledge other minority communities that have historically been ignored and targeted. This need to do so is all the more vital today as rise of nationalistic political platforms around the world focus on exclusion.

Event organizers 

This event was organized in collaboration with:

• Human Rights Services
• Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
• Office of the Provost and Vice-President Academic
• Vice-President, Administration and Finance