Supports for staff and students following horrific violence targeting Muslim community
June 8, 2021
The Upper Grand District School Board would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the Muslim community following the horrific violence in London, Ontario, which killed four family members and sent another family member to hospital with serious injuries. Officials are reporting that this is an apparent hate crime and that the victims were targeted because of their Muslim faith.
Our condolences go to the victims, their family members, friends and loved ones and the entire Muslim community.
Islamophobia, racism, hate and oppression cannot be tolerated. We stand in solidarity with the Muslim community, many who may be feeling pain and fear. The UGDSB is committed to disrupting Islamophobia and will continue to take action in anti-racism and anti-oppression work.
If you or someone you know is struggling or needs someone to talk to, supports are available both within our schools and within our communities.
UGDSB Support Services staff are available to support students and can be arranged through students’ classroom teacher.
Students may also contact:
- Naseeha Muslim Youth Hotline: 1 (866) 627-3342
- Guelph/Wellington: 1 844 437 3247 (HERE247)
- Dufferin: 519 941 1530 (DCAFS)
- Kids Help Phone: 1 800 668 6868
- Canadian Muslim Counselling
Our gratitude to the Muslim Society of Guelph for providing us these resources:
- Resources against Islamophobia (International Civil Liberties Monitoring Group)
- Islamophobia and Preconceived Notions
- Watch the ‘Islamophobia is’ Video Series
The resources and supports below are accessible to UGDSB staff:
- Islamophobia resources and supports (UGDSB Equity Website)
- Please reach out to the board’s Employee and Family Assistance Program
We encourage anyone in need of assistance to reach out for support and for everyone to support those around them.
Categories: News Tags: Anti-racism • Community