CUPE 3908 stands in unwavering solidarity with the University of Waterloo community, particularly those most directly impacted, as we express our sorrow and profound outrage in response to the appalling act of violence that unfolded during a Gender Issues class at the University of Waterloo. We extend our heartfelt thoughts to Professor Katy Fulfer, the injured students, their families and loved ones, and the entire class who witnessed this heinous act of hate.
We stand in solidarity with the multitude of scholars across the country who face violence and hatred on the basis of the trans-liberatory, queer, and feminist discussions they facilitate within their classrooms. We recognize the ongoing intensification of misogynist, transphobic, and homophobic rhetoric and action here in Ontario, and the impacts this violence has on 2SLGBTQIA+ faculty, staff, and students on our campuses. We express our gratitude and admiration for the invaluable contributions our members make in guiding students towards a more inclusive understanding of our world. We want to assure our members that we will actively engage with Trent University to collaboratively devise measures that prioritize the safety and well-being of faculty and students engaging in social justice focused teaching and learning. This tragic incident underscores the vulnerability faced by educators whose work centers social justice frameworks, and emphasizes the imperative of prioritizing the safety of classrooms within the academic institution.
We urge you to read the statements released by CAUT and the Ontario Confederation of University Faculty Associations (OCUFA) that condemn this hateful attack and offer resolute support and solidarity to the students, faculty, and staff at the University of Waterloo. CAUT’s statement is linked above.
The Women’s and Gender Studies Association [et Recherches Féministes] (WGSA/RF) has prepared an open letter and a call for signatures denouncing this act of violence. We strongly encourage you to read the letter and consider adding your support by signing it:
In solidarity,
CUPE 3908