To all Members of the Queen’s Community,
I write further to my statement issued this past weekend concerning violence in the Middle East. As the week has progressed, violence in the region has escalated and Israel has declared war. The entire stability of the Middle East is in question, and around the world people are struggling to come to terms with news of atrocities committed, broadcast by media and posted on social websites. This is undoubtedly a very frightening time, especially for our Jewish, Israeli, Muslim, and Palestinian students, staff, and faculty. As I made clear in my statement on Sunday, the suffering and senseless loss of life is deeply distressing for everyone, and it is important that right now we come together to support one another.
In the broader community, people are palpably afraid of what could come. Students who have been away for Fall Break are returning to a climate of tension and uncertainty. Administrative offices are receiving calls about what will be done to ensure violence does not erupt on campus, and you can be assured that everything possible is being done. What is occurring in the Middle East will almost inevitably give rise to heated local debate about issues at stake in the conflict. This is to be expected, as fundamentally universities are places of open debate and expression. But there are important parameters to be observed: there is absolutely no place in the academy for threats, hatred, harassment, or discrimination.
However the debate runs, I ask that we nevertheless be careful to remember the human suffering and trauma experienced on all sides, and that we respect the right of those directly affected to mourn what and whom they have lost. Queen’s must be a place where people can come together safely with thoughtfulness, respect, and compassion. We must not succumb to intolerance or worse, to violence. Our minds are the most powerful tools we possess for healing, and I am hopeful our community will not lose sight of that, especially in the very difficult weeks that undoubtedly lie ahead.
I reiterate the support services for students, staff and faculty that can be accessed by anyone in need. For students seeking immediate assistance, academic consideration is available. Faculties are ready and prepared to support with flexibility those who may require assistance as they manage the impact of this devastating conflict.
The university is closely monitoring any threats to the safety of its students, staff, and faculty. Campus Security is on heightened alert and we are working with local police to ensure that if there is need to take action, it can be communicated swiftly and effectively. If you have any concerns about your physical safety, contact Campus Security or local police immediately. We must all be vigilant and look out for one another.
I will continue to work with the leadership team to put in place any precautions and protections necessary to keep our community safe. I ask you to assist us with these efforts and most importantly to show empathy. In times like these, we must not forget our humanity.
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Patrick Deane
Principal and Vice-Chancellor