To the CBU Community,
Yesterday was a very heavy day.
Anti-trans and anti 2SLGBTQ+ rallies took place across the country including here in the CBRM.
Cape Breton University prides itself on our diverse and vibrant communities – our local and global excellence and relevance is strengthened by this diversity, including the presence and contributions of 2SLGBTQIA+ students, faculty and staff.
The increasing backlash against efforts to enhance the human rights, accessibility, inclusion and wellness of sexual orientation and gender identity minoritized peoples is extremely concerning. The waves of anti-SOGI protests which took place across Canada do not align with CBU’s values. CBU is committed to universal human rights and fundamental freedoms – which are extended to all citizens.
The question is not one of choosing between competing rights and freedoms but rather of reconciling and balancing these rights and freedoms to promote accessibility, equity, inclusion, and justice for all.
Whatever one’s ethno-racial background, religious belief, or political affiliation, human rights and freedoms (justice) for any group cannot be attained without ensuring the human rights and freedoms of all humanity.
The validation and empowerment of individuals and communities is key to human and just institutions and societies.
To the 2SLGBTQIA+ community at CBU, know that you are valued and that we stand with you.
To all CBU community members, you are encouraged to contact the Human Rights and Diversity Office with any human rights-related concerns, questions or complaints of discrimination and harassment, whether in person or online.
Respectfully yours,
Dr. Richard MacKinnon
Vice-President Academic and Provost