Earlier today, University of Toronto President Meric Gertler issued a statement in solidarity with the University’s Black community members, condemning anti-Black racism and discrimination both in the United States and here in Toronto. On behalf of the Faculty of Information, I wish to endorse the President’s statement as well as those made by many others at the University. I believe it is important for us to explicitly state our support as well as to continue working together to confront and eradicate anti-Black racism and all forms of discrimination, both on our campuses and in the world around us.
Shortly before the tragic events of last week provoked the reaction we are seeing this week, the Faculty of Information made a commitment – based on feedback received during a series of consultations – to examine our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policies, identify our past successes and failures, and make recommendations for moving forward. This work is now more timely and important than ever and we are committed to doing our utmost to support it as well as engaging with the university in its upcoming UofT-wide initiatives.
If you would like to help create change, please feel free to email inquire.ischool@utoronto.ca. We are in the process of putting together a list of students, faculty members and staff, who you can contact about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion issues. The University’s Anti-Racism and Cultural Diversity Office is also an excellent resource, providing a list of upcoming events and activities.
We welcome your input as we strive to create a more diverse, equitable and inclusive faculty.
Wendy Duff
Professor and Dean
Faculty of Information
