![Photo of the Queen and Prince Philip stopping in Kitchener-Waterloo on their 1973 royal tour of Canada.](https://uwaterloo.ca/news/sites/ca.news/files/styles/feature_large/public/microsoftteams-image_14.png?itok=oxlrQnP8)
The passing of Queen Elizabeth II
President Goel reflects on the death of Her Majesty
President Goel reflects on the death of Her Majesty
By Vivek Goel President and Vice-ChancellorWe are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
As Canada’s longest reigning monarch and Head of State, she has made an impact on many lives across our country and around the globe. I also understand Her Majesty had a special relationship with many Indigenous peoples in Canada.
We acknowledge that some members of our community may have different feelings and attitudes toward the role of Queen and the institution of the monarchy. Her Majesty’s 70-year reign witnessed enormous social and political change over the decades. As Queen and as a person, she was beloved by many. To many others, the institution of the monarchy represents a system of colonialism that historically has affected, oppressed and marginalized so many people around the world and continues to have consequences.
Earlier today we lowered our flags to mark the deaths in James Smith Cree Nation. Our flags will remain lowered until further notice in remembrance of Her Majesty The Queen as well as the tragic incidents in Saskatchewan.
The news coverage of the Queen’s passing over the coming days may be difficult for many in our community for a variety of reasons. If you need support, resources are available on our Campus Wellness pages.
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A message from President Goel
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A message from President Goel to the graduating class
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Presidents of Waterloo and Laurier universities write that post-secondary institutions and society benefit when we allow diverse voices to enrich our teaching, learning, research and service.
The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is co-ordinated within the Office of Indigenous Relations.