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Statement on violent assault at University of Waterloo

In solidarity with our colleagues at the University of Waterloo, the Queen’s University community condemns gender-based violence and all other forms of hatred and bigotry. Our thoughts are with the students, faculty, and staff at Waterloo in the wake of the recent attack that saw one faculty member and two students injured. We are greatly relieved to learn no lives were lost and that the perpetrator was identified and detained.

Universities share a tight bond. News of the attack has been deeply upsetting and concerning, particularly for those of us most vulnerable to gender-based and other forms of discrimination and hate.  We must remain resolute in our commitment to foster an inclusive, safe, and welcoming environment for all members of our community, and to the protection of spaces in which gender and intersectional social justice issues are studied and researched.

We recognize many in our community have been impacted by this deeply troubling incident. In the coming days, we will identify opportunities for campus community members affected by this horrific incident to come together to support each other, to share, and feel validated, with a focus on community healing.

The university also offers tailored supports for everyone including students who identify as Queer, Trans, Black, Indigenous, and/or as People of Colour (QTBIPoC) through Yellow House.

As we head into a long weekend, there are 24/7 resources available. Please reach out if you need support. 24/7 Student Assistance Programs – Students can connect with a qualified crisis counsellor through Console (for undergraduate and MBA students) and Empower Me (for graduate students).

Good2Talk

  • For any post-secondary student living in Ontario
  • Call 1-866-925-5454
  • Or, text: GOOD2TALKON to 686868 to get started and be connected to a trained crisis responder

Addiction & Mental Health Support (KFL&A)

  • For anyone living in the Kingston area
  • 24-hours a day, 7 days a week
  • 1-866-616-6005 or 613-544-4229
  • Mobile crisis support available

Employees can reach out to LifeWorks, Queen’s confidential Employee and Family Assistance Program provider, 24/7 at 1-877-789-7572, or access the Human Resources Intranet site for more information.

Note: This story was originally posted on the ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ Gazette.