We want to acknowledge and hold extra space today for those whose identities, communities, futures and dignity are being questioned and challenged today out on Edmonton’s streets, and beyond.
Although today’s events took place outside of University of Alberta campuses, the messages that inundate our media and social media also find their way into hallway and classroom conversations. They amplify feelings of precarity from 2SLGBTQIA+ community members, especially following the gender-based attack at the University of Waterloo. Many are deeply concerned about the safety of queer, trans and gender-non-conforming kiddos and teachers – and their allies – in schools today and going forward. At its heart, today’s events are about using institutions of learning to actively undermine the lives and life chances of queer, trans and gender non-conforming people. At this moment, we reaffirm our institutional commitment to ensuring the well-being of all who live, work and learn at the U of A.
We acknowledge and support the right to peaceful demonstration. And also today, and everyday, we suggest that each of us holds in our hearts one of James Baldwin’s crucial teachings, captured in the following quote attributed to him: “We can disagree and still love each other unless your disagreement is rooted in my oppression and denial of my humanity and right to exist.” There are ways to have these conversations that hold all of us in dignity, and do not put lives more at risk.
We send this message in hopes that each of you will check in on community members who are most impacted by today’s events and offer witness, solidarity and care. If you or someone you know could use some extra support today, below are some resources.
We invite you to share this message, and any other messages that support dignity and equity for those most impacted through the channels you have available to you.
Dr. Carrie Smith
In collaboration with the members of the Office of the Vice-Provost (Equity, Diversity and Inclusion)
RESOURCES
Crisis Support
Brite Line (24/7) 1-844-70-BRITE - Edmonton’s first mental health and wellness helpline dedicated to supporting people in Edmonton’s 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Created by members of the community for the community, Brite Line is a safe place to call to connect with hope, courage, support, understanding and the freedom to be who you are.
Trans Lifeline 1-877-330-6366 - a trans specific suicide crisis line for Canada and the U.S. Available 9am to 3am mountain time.
The Trevor Project 1-866-488-7386 - provides support to LGBTQ+ youth in crisis, feeling suicidal, or in need of a safe and judgment-free place to talk. (Text and chat support are only available in the US).
Campus Support
The Landing - 0-68A Lower Level SUB; (780) 492-4949; thelanding@su.ualberta.ca - offers support for gender and sexual diversity. They strive to promote gender equity on a broad scale, and advocate for the safety and acceptance of individuals of all genders and sexualities. They support LGBTTQQPIANU+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Two-Spirit, Queer, Questioning, Pansexual, Intersex, Asexual, Non-Binary, Unlabelled, and more) communities and individuals, as well as their supporters, friends, family and loved ones.
Community Support
Pride Centre of Edmonton - provides a non-judgmental, welcoming space where people of all attractions, identities, and expressions can be themselves, find support, meet new people, and be part of a caring community. The Centre offers resources, education, volunteer opportunities, counselling, and sensitive and expert information and referrals for those seeking help.
Trans Wellness Initiative - seeks to address health disparities and facilitate access to competent healthcare services for trans and gender diverse people in Alberta.
