Response to the attack at Hagey Hall

To the Grebel Community,

Today we are, all of us, coming to terms with the violent attack on two students and a professor at Hagey Hall yesterday afternoon. I understand that the survivors are in hospital, and we hope and pray for their full recovery from this attack.

This was an attack against a professor and students studying gender issues in a philosophy class. The police have confirmed that this was a hate crime targeted against the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, women, and the free expression and exploration of gender identity. I can't adequately articulate my shock, or my sense of shame that this has happened in our community. This is a time to offer solidarity and support to each other, and I was grateful to be part of a large group of Grebel faculty, staff, and students who attended the University of Waterloo gathering at the Arts Quad today.

This incident is deeply troubling, and it disrupts our sense of safety, security, and trust. Each of us may be affected in different ways. Some may need to take a pause; others may simply want to carry on with daily routines. Some may need to talk this through. I am sure that you will be graceful and gentle with each other as we each process this in our own ways. This is a time when we are especially fortunate to have a strong community to rely on.

Jim Rush, the Provost of the University, sent out a thoughtful message this morning which I encourage you to read. His message includes contact information for several resources from which you can seek support.  

In addition, if you need someone to talk to or have concerns that you wish to discuss about this incident, please reach out to your Chaplain Jessie Reesor Rempel, or to me. We are both available to support you.

Sincerely,

Marcus Shantz
President
Conrad Grebel University College