The University of Toronto stands in solidarity with our Iranian community members and everyone impacted by the detainment and death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini. We acknowledge that this is an exceptionally challenging time for those with personal ties to Iran.

We join with those who have voiced their outrage at these egregious acts, and at the continuing harassment and repression of women. It is crucial that we reaffirm our unflinching commitment to human rights. Speaking out is more important than ever, as government censorship is used to silence protests and conceal ongoing brutality amid escalating violence across Iran.

We support protests and vigils to honour Mahsa Amini’s memory—including the two held last week on our St. George campus—and we join with all those opposing the deep inequalities and barriers that women face around the world.

A tri-campus Community Vigil will be held on Monday, October 3 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the Main Activity Hall at the Multi-Faith Centre. The vigil will also be livestreamed and is being collaboratively coordinated with student leaders, the Multi-Faith Centre, and the Anti-Racism & Cultural Diversity Office (ARCDO). More information will be available on the ARCDO website shortly.

If you require support, I encourage you to contact the Anti-Racism & Cultural Diversity Office, the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Offices at UTSC and UTM, or the Multi-Faith Centre. Additional support is available 24/7 through the Mental Health portal (for students) and the Employee & Family Assistance Program (for faculty, librarians, and staff).