Laurier condemns racism

April 20, 2020

Wilfrid Laurier University strongly denounces the racism expressed by an individual in a series of tweets between 2012-2017.

Some people concerned with these tweets have described the person as a “facilitator” at Laurier. Our records do not indicate that this person has ever been a paid employee of the university. An internet search suggests that a person with the same name was invited by a student club to address its members. Regardless, Laurier denounces racism in all its forms.

The words used in these tweets are racist and do not reflect the values of diversity, inclusivity and respect that are at the core of our university and which we strive to encourage in all members of the Laurier community. Laurier acknowledges the harm that any expression of racism causes to individuals and the broader community.

Although this incident did not involve a member of the Laurier community, as a learning-centred organization we will use it as opportunity to renew our commitment to collectively mitigate the harm caused by racism and to continue fostering a campus environment in which visitors and all members of the Laurier community feel safe, welcome and valued.

Students, faculty and staff can access support and resources related to equity, diversity, and inclusion through one of the following offices:

• Laurier’s Centre for Student Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
  • In Waterloo: diversity@wlu.ca or 519.884.0710 x4584
  • In Brantford: lburrows@wlu.ca
• For faculty and staff: equity@wlu.ca or 519.884.0710 x4469
  • Also see the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion page on Connect