Global Equity Crises Statement
May 15th, 2021
KINGSTON, ON – In consideration of the global equity crises and civil unrest occurring across various populations internationally, the AMS, ASUS, EngSoc, HSS, and PHEKSA recognize the emotional labour, suffering, and challenges facing many students currently. Specifically, but not limited to, those affected by COVID-19, police brutality, ongoing colonial projects, social unrest globally, and societies facing various forms of crises. During these challenging times, we as a collective of your student government would like to extend our support as a community and as a resource. While we recognize that the current issues are broadly different in nature and distinctly affect varying groups, we realize the emotional and personal impact they hold for many students and their loved ones, both within and beyond the Queen’s community.
Our hearts go out to the many students who are impacted by these global equity crises and events. We acknowledge our positionality, as settlers living on Turtle Island, and the privileges that accompany it. As we are often physically distanced from these matters, we recognize that it can be challenging to know how best to be an ally for communities experiencing these crises. We understand the feelings of hopelessness and sadness that can often be tied to international struggles and tragedies. As members of the Queen’s community and those abroad continue to face these challenges, there are fundamental ways in which support, and resources can be provided to those struggling. These may include supporting friends, educating oneself on current events, signing petitions, supporting fundraisers, and joining email lists and newsletters. We have attached a variety of resources pertaining to mental health, equity, local religious services, and faculty-specific contacts.
The mandate of the AMS and its affiliated faculty societies has always been to uphold equity, diversity, and inclusivity in all areas of student life. We firmly believe that everyone has a right to a safe learning environment and there is no place in our community for hate, racism, sexism, homophobia, or discrimination of any kind. As leaders of your student government, we want to assure our community that we will always prioritize the wellbeing of our students and we will continue to offer support and resources to all Queen’s students and advocate for EDII values.
Students in need of support can access the following resources:
Zaid Kasim – president@ams.queensu.ca
Alyth Roos – president@asus.queensu.ca
Christina Bisol (she/her)– president@engsoc.queensu.ca
Lynne Altow – 18lca3@queensu.ca
Kristina Miakisheva – president@pheksa.queensu
Social issues commissioner – Samara Lijiam
PSC x CARED:
Peer-Based Support for BIPOC Students
Available Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 2-4pm
Access cross cultural 1:1 and group counselling at Student Wellness Services. You can make an appointment by calling 613-533-2506.
Empower Me is a 24/7 phone service for crisis situations and scheduled sessions that allows students to connect with qualified counselors, consultants, and life coaches for a variety of issues. The password required to access the service is studentcare.
Good2Talk is a free confidential mental health helpline.
TALK is a confidential, anonymous and non-judgemental volunteer-based support service.
Queen’s Therapy Assistance Online (TAO)
The Queen’s University International Centre (QUIC)
QUIC offers virtual drop-in advising sessions every Monday – Thursday 10:00 am – 11:00 am and 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm.
Faith based Chaplains on Campus
Four Directions Indigenous Student Centre
AMS Food Bank – Location: 343 of the JDUC
HSS Mental Health Resource Guide
Please direct all media inquiries to Maddie Zarb, AMS Director of Communications, at communications@ams.queensu.ca
BACKGROUNDER
Alma Mater Society (AMS) – //www.myams.org
The central undergraduate student government at Queen’s University, the AMS represents over 19,000 students and is the oldest student government in Canada. There are over 1,000 student volunteers and 700 paid staff.