It’s been a year since the traumatic, hate-motivated attack at Hagey Hall on the University of Waterloo’s main campus and it has been a difficult year for many of us. As we reflect on the last year, our hearts are with those injured in the attack and the other students in the class. We also stand in solidarity with 2SLGBTQIA+ students, staff, and faculty, recognizing the harm that this attack caused, as it was related to gender identity and gender expression. Hate and violence have no place on our campus.  

We recognize that for many, memories of that day linger and are still painful. Your student association remains here for you as we navigate this healing process together. Everyone, regardless of their gender expression, identity, beliefs, or opinions deserves to feel safe and welcome on their university campus. Universities should be a space for all students, faculty, and staff to learn, study, and socialize together without fear.  

Safe spaces, like the Glow Centre, are essential in addressing the unique and systemic barriers faced by 2SLGBTQIA+ students. Over the last 60 years, Glow coordinators and volunteers have worked to create safe spaces for 2SLGBTQIA+ students at Waterloo. Their dedication, hard work, and thoughtfulness has contributed to so much positive change on campus, and we are thankful to everyone who has been involved with Glow for their dedication, especially in the last year. It has not been an easy time and we commend the work you continue to do to serve your peers.  

Working towards an equitable and accepting world for all is something we can commit to year-round. As Pride month ends, we encourage everyone to continue learning about the barriers and challenges that the 2SLGBTQIA+ community faces. Many of these learning materials and opportunities for education are a result of on-going communal efforts and labour of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.  

We know that many of you may still be affected by what happened last year, especially as news around charges and sentencing comes out over the coming months. Please take care of yourselves during this time and reach out for support when you need it.  

WUSA offers support such as Empower Me, where you can find someone to talk to 24/7. You can also reach out to Campus Wellness and Counselling Services or find your community through one of our many student clubs and services.   

The University is organizing consultations with 2SLGBTQIA+ students, faculty, staff, and other key stakeholders across campus to better understand their experiences on campus, with the goal of addressing any gaps or concerns. If you would like to provide feedback to the University on spaces for 2SLGBTQIA+ students on campus or to identify gaps or priority areas, we encourage you to sign up at Knowledge Gathering and Sharing for 2SLGBTQIA+ Communities. 

If you are ever in a situation that feels unsafe, call 911 and then contact Special Constable Service at 519-999-4911. If you’ve experienced hate on campus, you can report it by e-mailing gethelp@uwaterloo.ca.