The recent hate-motivated attack there, related to gender expression and gender identity, is an attack on the values of inclusion and diversity that universities stand for and promote.
University classrooms must be places of safe, informed and respectful discussion and debate. Violence and hatred have no place in them.
Our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Policy, approved by every USask governing body, states that “All members of the university community share the responsibility for creating a supportive and inclusive environment.” Our USask community’s commitment to this is strengthened today.
Our thoughts are with our colleagues and friends at UWaterloo and with everyone affected by this senseless event.
Peter Stoicheff
President and Vice-chancellor
University of Saskatchewan