Peaceful Assembly at University of Lethbridge

News Staff - Fri Feb 03, 2023

The University of Alberta Students' Union (UASU) reaffirms its commitment to truth and reconciliation, and to the dignity, safety, and voices of Indigenous students. There is no place for discrimination or harassment in our communities.

We reject any attempt to minimize the damage done by the Indian Residential School System (IRSS), recognized as genocide by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, UASU policy, and the Government of Canada.

We commend the University of Lethbridge Students’ Union (ULSU), the University of Lethbridge Department of Indigenous Studies, and hundreds of community members who exercised their freedom of peaceful assembly. We are learning that some participants and supporters are facing racialized harassment and threats for taking a principled stand.

At a time when students are struggling to afford their education and the necessities of life, we know that many students face more than their share of burdens and barriers. We urge Minister Nicolaides and other decision-makers to refocus their priorities, listen to Indigenous stakeholders, and remember that dignity and safety are at issue.

Our University has firm policies against discrimination and harassment. We encourage impacted students to connect with the best available resources. The UASU Cares directory can point you toward professional services and culturally informed support.

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

The UASU is the official representative of 35,000 undergraduate students at the University of Alberta. It advocates for students’ needs and priorities to the University of Alberta and at all levels of government.

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

University of Alberta Students’ Union

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

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