Content warning: Violence, Bigotry, Hate Crime

The Arts and Science Students’ Union (ASSU) is deeply concerned and saddened by the hate-motivated attack which occurred in a class on gender issues at the University of Waterloo last week. Such a heinous act of violence has no place in our society.

Education should be a safe and nurturing environment for everyone, regardless of their identity or expression. A classroom environment is designed to encourage students to engage in dialogue, learn critical thinking, and explore diverse perspectives. It is heartbreaking to see that students and faculty were senselessly targeted and attacked in their mere pursuit of an education.

While anti-2SLGBTQIA+ rhetoric has always existed, we must acknowledge the recent wave of increased transphobic and homophobic discrimination, rhetoric, and policy decisions across the world. With the recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that nondiscrimination laws can not be enforced against businesses, it is clear that protecting the safety of 2SLGBTQIA+ and other marginalized groups is not being prioritized.

We are embarrassed by the University of Waterloo’s delayed response to the attack and the lack of support and transparency regarding the victims of the attack. We urge the University of Waterloo to prioritize the safety and protection of all queer, trans, and feminized individuals at the University by increasing safety measures, introducing more equity education and awareness, and improving their community support and resources. In addition, we urge the University of Toronto to reexamine its safety measures and conduct in light of the tragedy.

It is imperative that, as a society, we strongly denounce all forms of violence, hatred, and discrimination derived from any facets of an individual’s identity. As a student union, we have a zero-tolerance policy for anti-LGBTQIA2S+ discrimination and will continue to address and condemn all acts of hate within the University of Toronto and our broader community.

To our queer, trans, and feminized students, we are here to hear your concerns and offer support to you in the best way that we can. Please feel free to reach out to us anytime.

With Solidarity,

The ASSU Executive