Content warning: this message contains information about gender-based violence

At RRC Polytech we are deeply saddened by the news of the recent attack during a gender studies class at the University of Waterloo, which left three people injured and is believed to be hate-motivated.

RRC Polytech does not condone and has a zero-tolerance policy for any expression of hate on our campuses. On our campuses – and across all post-secondary institutions – everyone deserves to feel physically and psychologically safe, regardless of their sexuality, gender identity or gender expression.

Pride month is a time to celebrate the diversity of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities and foster respect, understanding and advocacy so that everyone feels and is safe on our campuses and in the community at large. This incident at the University of Waterloo illustrates why it is critical that we continue to embed equity, diversity, and inclusion in everything we do, providing opportunities for learning and to take action against hate not just in June but every single day.

We stand in solidarity with students and faculty at the University of Waterloo and their families and loved ones, who have been injured and impacted by the incident. Our thoughts are with you during this immeasurably difficult and heart-breaking time – our hopes are that those injured and impacted seek the care and supports they need to recover and return to their studies soon.

If you have been impacted by this news, we encourage you to access the supports available to you through the College and the community:

• Campus Well-Being Supports and Resources
• Homewood Health (Employee and Family Assistance Program for RRC Polytech staff)
• Anxiety Disorders Association of Manitoba
• Rainbow Resource Centre