Violence against women is a despicable reality in Canada and around the world. We must take every opportunity to condemn it and work tirelessly to bring it to an end.
Many of you are disturbed, as I am, at news of anonymous online threats targeting women at our university. In response to these specific threats, we have increased the presence of our own police on all three campuses. We have shared information with our community about how faculty, students and staff can ensure their own safety and where to call if they see suspicious activity. Finally, we’re working closely to support the Toronto Police Service in their investigation.
I am immensely proud of the contributions members of the U of T community have made to the women’s movement and to feminism. Our university holds the distinction of having one of the oldest programs in Women and Gender Studies in Canada. Women’s Studies has been part of the curriculum at the University of Toronto since 1971.
We owe a great debt to the visionary women who provided that leadership more than 40 years ago. Today, in multiple departments across the University of Toronto, faculty and students continue to examine all aspects of feminism and gender in Canada and around the world.
We support all members of our community at the University of Toronto. The diversity of our staff, students, and faculty reflects our local and global community. It is a mark of this university’s excellence and a source of strength for all of us.
Resources:
Please report any suspicious activity to the police at 911 or campus police at:
• St George: 416-978-2222
• UTM: 905-569-4333
• UTSC: 416-287-7333
The University has a variety of safety programs to support students, faculty, and staff while on campus. Please see www.safety.utoronto.ca for more information.
Also, for concerns about your personal safety, please consult the Community Safety Office.