A joint message from UFV President Dr. Joanne MacLean and UFV Provost Dr. James Mandigo.

We are angered and heartbroken by the senseless act of terrorism and Islamophobia that occurred on Sunday in London, Ontario. This devastating attack on a Muslim family is a hate crime and UFV offers our deepest sympathies to the Muslim community – across the Fraser Valley and beyond. The University stands with you. Xenophobia will not be tolerated and it will certainly not divide us. We are united in standing for inclusion and diversity and against racism, violence, and hatred. This terrible act also underlines the importance of the work done by the UFV Task Force on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion and the progress report that will be released in the weeks ahead.

Support for members of the Muslim community is available through the BC Muslim Association or the National Council of Canadian Muslims. Muslim youth may call 1-866-627-3342 for mental health support.

For UFV employees experiencing distress or have difficulty coping, you can contact, in confidence, Homewood Health at 1-800-663-1142, or visit the UFV benefits page for more information on Employee and Family assistance.

It is only through education and determined consistent action that we will take significant steps toward eliminating systemic racism and xenophobia.

Sincerely,

Dr. Joanne MacLean, President and Vice-Chancellor
Dr. James Mandigo, Provost and Vice-President Academic