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Dear Faculty, Staff and Students,

Recently, we have heard about rallies for which inclusivity of 2SLGBTQIA+ rights were challenged. As educators and administrators, we support inclusive schools and safe environments where everyone feels valued and respected. Rights such as those related to gender expression and gender identity are enshrined in the Canadian Human Rights Act, and it is our responsibility to respect these rights and advocate for those who are unfairly treated. We value diversity and we are committed to engaging in constructive conversations that work towards equity and inclusivity in all spaces.

With education and respectful conversations, we will build a more equitable environment together. Educators have an essential role in promoting a culture of care and compassion and in helping students develop the skills and understandings they need to create a more just society.

UM staff are available to help those who are affected by these difficult topics. We encourage members of our community to reach out to advisors in our faculty, or to staff and faculty in your department, who may assist and support you.

The University of Manitoba, Faculty of Education, will be hosting a leadership symposium for and by Queer People October 20thhttps://www.mbteach.org/mtscms/2I023/09/04/strengthening-the-status-queer/.

The University provides a wide range of counselling serviceshttps://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/student-health-and-wellness/student-counselling-centre-scc

Additional support for the UM 2SLGBTQIA+ communityhttps://umanitoba.ca/2slgbtqia-community

We support our 2SLGBTQIA+ students, staff and faculty. Together we are committed to a ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all.

Sincerely,

Dr. Jan Stewart, Dean Dr. Frank Deer, Associate Dean Indigenous Education Dr. Melanie Janzen, Associate Dean Graduate Programs and Research Dr. Wayne Serebrin, Associate Dean Undergraduate

[cid:image003.png@01D9ECB3.0D38D5F0] Office of the Dean, Faculty of Education University of Manitoba Room 225 Education Building Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 2N2 Dean’s Office: dean.education@umanitoba.camailto:dean.education@umanitoba.ca