Tuesday November 3, 2020
We, at the Arts and Science Students’ Union, are absolutely heartbroken to learn of the death of a fellow student at the Chestnut Residence last night. As we, alongside the greater campus community, continue to feel the impacts of this tragedy, our hearts go out to the student’s family, friends, and loved ones.
In all honesty, we are feeling a range of emotions right now—sadness, disappointment, frustration. As we again have to write another statement, we are reminded of the many systematic failures of this institution. Our mental health resources are inadequate, our mental health policies are appalling, and the responses from our university administration are absolutely upsetting. Last November, Vice-Provost Sandy Welsh stated that mental health is a priority of the University but we are once again faced with the reality of inaction. Students’ mental health and their ability to thrive should always be a priority of the University. Unfortunately, this has never been the case.
With almost all learning taking place online, and the lack of in-person interactions during this difficult COVID-19 pandemic, we are reminded of the complex issues that students are faced with every day. Our experiences and struggles are valid and we must work to make sure that these issues are taken seriously by faculty and staff.
The need to be together, while apart, has never been more important. Now more than ever, we need to support each other. As a campus community, we urge you to check on friends and fellow peers. As we do the same, we hope to also continue to advocate for students at the Faculty level and ensure that greater effort is made to support the mental health and well-being of our students.
Again, we cannot find words to express our immense sorrow at the loss of a fellow student. We will continue to push the university administration for comprehensive change so students receive the support that they deserve. We hope that you will continue to check in with yourself, your friends, families, and loved ones. We also hope to be a friend and a listening ear for all and anyone, so please do not hesitate to personally reach out to any one of us at ASSU.
With love and support,
The ASSU Executive
Ikran Jama, President |president@assu.ca
Victoria Chen, Treasurer | victoria@assu.ca
Emma Davy, Executive | emma@assu.ca
Paavni Grover, Executive | paavni@assu.ca
Martha Taylor, Executive | martha@assu.ca
Foti Vito, Executive | foti@assu.ca
