by Ainsley Carry
As we begin the second month of the new academic year, I hope you are all settling into your classes, routines, and schedules. I have certainly been invigorated by the student presence on campus. You are truly what makes UBC come alive.
As you may know, I am hosting Listening Sessions with students around UBC’s health services and university affordability. Thank you to those who have participated so far. I am committed to keeping you updated on this process. If you wish to attend a session or share your thoughts please email me.
Today, I would like to talk to you about one of the most sacred values of our university community: mutual respect. In recent years, the world has been faced with increasing tensions around important and urgent matters. Political elections, movements against sexual misconduct and violence, climate debates, and socio-economic inequities are amongst the many topics.
Universities play a central role in providing a forum where ideas can be expressed, debated, and challenged—and where participants can gain insight and greater mutual understanding. Our role as scholars and community members at UBC demands we conduct ourselves appropriately and with respect. UBC’s Policy SC7 (formerly Policy 3) is very clear:
“The University of British Columbia has responsibility for and is committed to providing its students, staff and faculty with an environment dedicated to excellence, equity and mutual respect; one that is free of Discrimination; and one in which the ability to freely work, live, examine, question, teach, learn, comment and criticize is protected.”
“Academic Freedom and freedom of thought, belief, opinion and expression carries with it the expectation that all Members of the UBC Community will conduct themselves in a responsible manner so as not to cause, condone or participate in the Discrimination of another person or group of persons. UBC’s commitment to maintaining and respecting human rights at every level of the institution is central to this Policy.”
True learning occurs through a willingness to understand all perspectives.
With that, I wish you all well. October is the beginning of what can be a challenging time for students. With those first assignments being handed in—and midterms on the horizon—it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. However, please do remember to prioritize your health and well-being. Familiarize yourself with the numerous resources and supports available to you as UBC students.
Take care of yourselves, and each other.