Supporting our Black community members: A message from OAC leadership

Last week, President Franco Vaccarino released a message of solidarity for our Black community members, acknowledging the ongoing injustices, hatred and violence committed against them. This message is an important reminder that the U of G community must make an ongoing commitment to combating acts of racism and discrimination. We must continue our work to improve our supports and inclusive practices for our students, faculty and staff.

OAC leadership began a dialogue earlier this year on how they can better support a college culture of safety and inclusiveness, with a commitment to respond promptly and decisively in all instances of harassment and discrimination.

Today, we are reaffirming that commitment, and promising our community that we will work with the Office of Diversity and Human Rights to develop training and resources for our students, faculty and staff, including anti-racism training. We will provide updates on these actions in the fall.

We would like to remind you to take the time you need to take care of yourself and others during these difficult times. The Cultural Diversity Office is hosting drop-in community spaces for U of G students, staff and faculty this week. These events are intended to provide a safe space and enable community members to process the weight of the many complex emotions that we are feeling and carrying right now.

If you or someone you know experiences racism, hatred or discrimination please contact our Diversity and Human Rights Office (dhrinfo@uoguelph.ca) or reach out to U of G's Cultural Diversity Advisor Tameera (tameera@uoguelph.ca). To access services, or to learn how to be an effective ally, please visit the Office of Diversity & Human Rights website and the Cultural Diversity Office website.