The University of Alberta stands with the entire University of Waterloo community following the stabbing incident that occurred on June 28 in a gender studies classroom. We are keeping the professor and two students who were injured, along with all of those affected, in our thoughts.
I condemn this attack, which was motivated by hate related to gender expression and identity, and find it deeply concerning. At the U of A, we celebrate our expertise in gender studies and strive to build a respectful community inclusive of all genders. We have many students, faculty and staff who study, teach, research and support topics related to gender, sexuality and intersectionality across our campuses. We are committed to upholding their rights to do so in a safe environment free from harassment, discrimination and violence.
The U of A stands in solidarity with and supports all of our 2SLGBTQIA+ students, faculty and staff. We reaffirm our commitment to protecting their human rights and wellbeing, and continuing our efforts to address sexual and gender-based violence at all levels within our institution and communities.
We are currently exploring many avenues related to safety and security from those concerns being raised following this assault. Some of these include looking into how instructor information is publicly posted, collaborating with those who teach and research in these areas to identify actions, and advancing conversations around restorative practices.
I understand that many of our community members may be impacted and struggling with the news of this violent attack. If you need support, services or someone to talk to, the following resources are available to you, some of which are available 24/7 as we head into the long weekend.
To report an incident of hate, call 911 for an emergency; or for non-emergency concerns, contact U of A protective services at 780-492-5050 (North Campus) or 780-608-2905 (Augustana Campus), or Paladin Security at 780-428-1541 (Enterprise Square). The U of A’s protective services team is dedicated to serving all members of our U of A community.
Resources and supports
- Any community member who is experiencing harm or concerns related to gender and gender identity are encouraged to reach out to their supervisor as well as the Office of the Vice-Provost (Equity, Diversity and Inclusion), which includes Helping Individuals at Risk, the Office of Safe Disclosure & Human Rights and the Office of the Student Ombuds; the Student Service Centre; and/or the Staff Service Centre.
- Students can also access a range of services available:
- 211 for free, 24/7 confidential assistance.
- CMHA Distress Line (780-482-4357) 24/7 for those in distress or considering self harm.
- Kids Help Phone (1-800-668-6868) 24/7 for anonymous phone or web counselling and referrals for children and youth, including 24/7 text support.
- Wellness Supports connects students to resources on campus and in the community. You can access one-on-one support by emailing wellness@ualberta.ca.
- Counselling and Clinical Services provides accessible and compassionate services to students to improve personal, social and academic well-being. Current students residing in Alberta can set up a counseling session by calling 780-492-5205 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
- Peer Support Centre (Help Line: 780-492-4357; psc@su.ualberta.ca) offers free, confidential and non-judgmental supports by trained peer volunteers.
- The Landing is a student space for gender and sexual diversity.
- The Graduate Student Assistance Program offers Homewood Health services 24/7.
- Employees can also access 24/7 support through the Employee and Family Assistance Program.
Verna Yiu
Interim Provost and Vice-President (Academic)