Department of Health and Society Statement on the Islamophobic Attack in London, Ontario

June 9, 2021

We were horrified to learn of act of white supremacist terrorism that resulted in the deaths of four Muslim members of the same family, and serious injuries to a fifth this weekend. The Department of Health and Society denounces all forms of Islamophobia and joins communities within Scarborough and across Canada in mourning those killed in Sunday’s attack.

Canada has a long tradition of white supremacist violence, which often goes unacknowledged. We recognize that as researchers, teachers, and community members, it is our responsibility to identify and expose Islamophobia, to teach others of the pervasiveness of white supremacy, and to work toward justice. To learn more about the Islamophobia and white supremacy in Canada, visit the National Council of Canadian Muslims website.

The University of Toronto has established a Working Group on Islamophobia as part of its ongoing commitment to inclusive excellence. This working group is one of U of T’s Anti Racsim Stategic Tables, formed to “understand and respond to the needs of campus communities experiencing racism and religious discrimination.” You can learn more about the Anti-Islamophobia Community Working Group by visiting this link. To learn about UTSC’s anti-racism initiatives, visit the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Office at UTSC.

We encourage members of the UTSC community who need additional support to reach out to the U of T My Student Support Program line, which offers 24/7 emergency counselling services by dialing 1-844-451-9700 (Outside of North America, call 001-416-380-6578). Students may also contact the Health and Wellness Centre for non-emergency support. For off-campus support, students can contact Naseeha, a support service for Muslim Youth

If you experience or witness Islamophobic harassment or abuse within the U of T campus or community, please contact the Community Safety Office or the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Office at UTSC. Please visit this website, from the U of T Faculty of Medicine, for more information on supporting people who are experiencing racism or harassment.