Dear George Brown Community:
As we continue to witness widespread global conflict, we know that it can be a challenge to fully engage in school, work and relationships with peers and colleagues. We understand and acknowledge the unease, fear and pain those from Jewish and Palestinian communities are experiencing as well as see the impacts on the many Canadians who are further from the conflict. Antisemitism, Islamophobia and racism have increased; these incidences and the conflict between Hamas and Israel can be traumatizing to both those inside and outside the region. At the same time, there are unsafe situations affecting people across the world, including in Asia, Africa, Europe, South and Central America. I along with many members of the GBC community empathize with the tragedies associated with each of these situations. I invite all of us to extend support to members of the Jewish and Palestinian communities here at GBC and beyond.
It is important to remember that the actions we take and words we use exemplify the values of our college. It is for this reason that I affirm that George Brown College continues to stand against all forms of hate, violence, antisemitism, Islamophobia and racism.
Now, more than ever, it is crucial for us to draw from our values of inclusion, anti-racism and reconciliation. With more than 100 nations represented at GBC, we are committed to being a community where we can listen and learn from one another respectfully; to show compassion and empathy toward those who have diverse lived experiences and points of view. Even when this is hard and challenging, it is necessary as an institution of learning that we help to create pathways for peace.
Feeling safe on campus is everyone's right and we are vigilant in this responsibility. Our spaces – from physical classrooms to digital platforms – must be open for respectful dialogue and expression; at the same time, we must protect against displays of antisemitism, Islamophobia or any other form of hate. Incidents will be responded to appropriately, addressed by our college policies and according to our legal responsibilities to maintain an inclusive environment.
The well-being and safety of our community is crucial during this difficult and emotional time. Below are college resources that you can access for additional help. Now is when we need compassion and understanding within our community and from one another.
Dr. Gervan Fearon President, George Brown College
Resources available for you:
Safety:
If you are concerned about your or another person’s safety and security, call GBC’s Safety & Security number: 416-415-4000, or 0 from a George Brown College internal phone, or the emergency text number 416-723-4761.
If you experience or witness discrimination, harassment or hate, contact the Office of Anti-Racism, Equity and Human Rights Services at diversity@georgebrown.ca.
Well-being:
Students: If you are a student who needs counselling and support in Ontario, contact GBC Counselling and Student Wellbeing at letstalk@georgebrown.ca or 416-415-5000 ext. 5370. If you are located internationally, you can access telephone and virtual support services 24/7 via the We Connect website.
Employees: If you are an employee who needs counselling and support, visit Telus Health at login.lifeworks.com or call 1-844-880-9142.
Supportive classrooms + workplaces:
- Resources and suggestions on how to establish and maintain an inclusive learning environment.
- Strategies for leaders on how to react with care and thoughtfulness in times of distress.
- Workplace strategies for positive mental health
- Supporting others who have experienced trauma in war
- Building your personal resilience as a manager
