This notice is from the archives of The Notice Board. Information contained in this notice was accurate at the time of publication but may no longer be so.
Dear Students,
Perhaps like me, you are outraged by the violent racist incidents that have occurred over the past few days.
Systemic racism exists in our society, including in universities. Indigenous, Black and other racialized students encounter prejudice and systemic barriers and oppression in their daily lives. It’s unacceptable.
Together, we must commit every day to educate each other, to learn from each other, and to root out intolerance and discrimination. I encourage you to help to ensure that our university community protects and values diversity, advances equity and inclusion, and unites against racism. Outrage isn’t enough. We must act, together.
There are a number of ways to get involved to make change. Become educated about privilege, how micro-aggressions perpetuate racism, systemic oppression, and unconscious bias. Challenge racist thinking and behaviour with research. Familiarize yourself with the University’s policies and processes that address discrimination, including the Harassment and Discrimination Policy. Share your knowledge with others.
It has been a very challenging week and, if you have been affected by news or by other similar incidents, please know that you can reach out for support from Counselling Services, Indigenous Student Services, or other options listed below.
We’re here to support you.
With deep respect,
Kathleen Massey
Associate Vice-President (Students)
You are not alone.
There are many resources available if you feel like you need more support at this time:
- Counselling & Career Services (counselling.services@uleth.ca; ulethbridge.ca/counselling) is offering tele-counselling services as an alternative to in-person sessions in the form of Zoom and phone sessions;
- TAO (Therapy Assist Online) ulethbridge.ca/counselling/therapy-assist-online-tao211
- Alberta - post-secondary students across Alberta can text STUDENT to 211 or visit www.ab.211.ca and click “live chat” anytime 24/7 to reach a live person – a community resource specialist – who will listen and connect them with the most appropriate on-campus and community resources;
- 7 Cups of Tea - support program that offers free, anonymous and confidential online text chats with peers who are trained listen 7cups.com/p/uleth
- Spiritual resources on campus include: Chaplain services (M4054, 403-382-0294, phillips@uleth.ca) and Indigenous Elders (A430, 403-329-2369 fng@uleth.ca)
Contact:
Kathleen Massey | kathleen.massey@uleth.ca