Some of you may be aware that a call for violence against Jewish and Israeli people has been made targeting violent action on Friday, Oct. 13th.

Emily Carr University denounces Antisemitism and condemns all forms of violence in no uncertain terms. We disavow hate and discrimination, including but not limited to Antisemitism, and Anti-Muslim and Anti-Arab racism, which have been on the rise at alarming and disturbing rates this past week.

Many members of our community are affected by these threats of violence and this rise in racism and intolerance, and are feeling many emotions including anger, fear, hurt, grief, anxiety and pain.

Given the targeted threat of violence on Friday, Oct. 13th, Emily Carr encourages all affected students, staff and faculty who feel unsafe to take whatever actions they need to feel safe and supported. This may mean staying home or surrounding oneself with friends and allies. It may mean seeking support through ECU services or external services that are culturally safe and relevant.

Those who need support can find an initial list of resources below. If you need support that is not included in this list, ECU’s Student Services team will work directly with you to ensure you can access the services and support you need: viceprovoststudents@ecuad.ca. ECU employees in need of additional services or support are welcome to contact HR@ecuad.ca.

There will be enhanced security on Emily Carr University’s campus on Friday, Oct. 13th and we are continually monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of our community. Community members with concerns about safety can contact ECU’s Program Manager, Violence Reduction + Incident Response: TAT@ecuad.ca.

Earlier this week ECU’s Counselling and Wellness team had planned to hold space on Friday, Oct. 13th for students impacted by this hate and violence. In light of this new threat to safety against Jewish and Israeli people, this gathering will be cancelled. Instead, ECU’s Counselling team will provide individual drop-in counselling and support in the Wellness Lounge on Friday, Oct. 13th and Monday, Oct. 16th from 10am to 3pm. Additionally, counselling services are always available by appointment.

Emily Carr University recognizes that the complexity and severity of this tragic and evolving situation is impacting different people in different ways. Our intention is to hold space for one another’s unique experiences and our shared humanity. We will continue to stand against hate, racism and intolerance.