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Campus Notes

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SMU community shows Pride love at Paint Your Pride event

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On June 20, Student Affairs and Services (SAAS) hosted a Paint Your Pride event to kick off the 2023 Pride Season at SMU.

Taking place in the Quad, Paint Your Pride brought students, faculty, staff and even Halifax locals together to celebrate Pride Month and create a beautiful rainbow chalk mural. The event also boasted activities including a make-your-own Pride pin station, lawn games, cake and popcorn treats, an info table breaking down the various 2SLGBTQIA+ pride flags and highlighting community resources, and a pop-up Pride merch table from the SMU Bookstore.

During the event, Welcome Activities Coordinator, Toky Tajwar and Student Life Coordinator, Liv Brennan asked attendees what Pride means to them. Dee Dooley, Sexual Violence Advisor described Pride as “community and liberation” while Peer Success coach, Michael Rumsby felt Pride to mean “loving and accepting everybody for who they are.” Members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community and allies joined together with resounding messages of love, acceptance and community resounding in the beautiful artwork created.

Paint Your Pride was just one of several Pride initiatives that SMU is involved in this year. In addition to several Pride events, SAAS has undertaken a project to develop a 2SLGBTQIA+ Community webpage to be launched this summer. The initiative, prominently developed by members of the queer community, will create a digital hub of pan-campus resources, groups, committees and societies, as well as news and upcoming events.

Related:

Dan Seneker announced as AVP Enrolment Management & Registrar

Dan Seneker

Saint Mary’s University is pleased to announce that Dan Seneker will join the university as Associate Vice-President, Enrolment Management & Registrar on August 21, 2023.

Seneker joins the SMU community from Bishop’s University in Quebec, where his most recent post was Director, Student Recruitment & Retention. Dan is an award-winning leader with more than 20 years of experience in student enrolment and success.

He holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts (Bishop’s University) as well as a Master of Communications Studies and a University Teaching Certificate (University of Calgary). 

During his career, he has worked at four major Canadian universities and brings a wealth of experience in key areas such as enrolment management, internationalization, student recruitment, admissions, scholarships, marketing, student success, retention and student experience.

This role reports to the Vice-President, Academic and Research. Seneker will provide senior leadership to all aspects of our enrolment management strategy, including recruitment, admissions, registrar services, the Academic Discipline Officer, as well as the coordination of conversion and retention initiatives and academic advising.

People & Culture notice: Workplace Violence Assessment

Under the provincial occupational health and safety act, Saint Mary’s University is required to conduct a Workplace Violence Assessment at regular intervals.  The last such assessment at SMU was in 2015 and it is now time to update the assessment.  As I did in 2015, I have agreed to conduct the survey and will report back to Occupational Health and Safety with the results.  This research is not funded, and both Mahya and I are working on the project as a service to the university.

All Saint Mary’s employees are invited to participate in the risk assessment by completing an online survey.  The survey asks about your experiences with various programs at SMU, your own experienced and witnessed experience of violence and your perceptions and attitudes toward the university.  The survey will remain open until June 27, 2023 and responses received before then will be included in our analysis.  Through your participation, you are helping us to minimize the risk of violence in our workplace.

 This research has been reviewed and cleared by the Saint Mary’s University Research Ethics Board (REB # 15-155). If you have any questions or concerns about ethical matters, you may contact the Chair of the Saint Mary's University Research Ethics Board at ethics@smu.ca or 420-5728.


If you wish to participate, or wish to learn more about the survey please follow the link given below. https://smuniversity.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9EpjIu3MzOGUXoG

Thank you,

Principal Investigator:                    
Dr. Kevin Kelloway, Dept. of Psychology
Kevin.kelloway@smu.ca (902) 491-8616

Student Co-Investigator:
Mahya Masshadi, Dept. of Psychology
Mahya.masshadi@smu.ca (902) 491-6355

 

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Student perspective: experiencing Pride at Saint Mary’s

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June is the kick-off month for Pride Season, a time to honour the celebration of love and acceptance dedicated to celebration and commemoration of two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (or sometimes questioning), intersexual, asexual (2SLGBTQI+) pride.

At Saint Mary’s, we strive to create a welcoming, respectful and supportive environment for our entire community. For many, SMU has become a home away from home, and we endeavour to ensure there is safe space for self-discovery and to experience joy in community. 

Liv Brennan

Liv Brennan (she/her) is a third-year Bachelor of Arts student majoring in Anthropology and minoring in Geology, who is currently working as the Student Life Coordinator for the Student Success Centre (SSC). SMU’s initiatives in allyship and creating safe space were an important factor in Brennan’s decision to work in the SSC.

“Previously I worked in Residence Life and have been involved in the RainBEAU Committee as well as the Pride Society, so I knew there would be support for me as an LGBTQI+ person,” says Brennan. “My experience at SMU has always been positive and my colleagues have always been supportive—it makes me proud to work here.” 

Being involved with 2SLGBTQI+ initiatives on campus has been an empowering part of Brennan’s experience at Saint Mary’s University. “It means a lot to me to see SMU acknowledging Pride Month,” explains Brennan. “It’s a great opportunity for our community to feel a sense of belonging and it enhances our sense of pride in who we are.” 

Within her role as Student Life Coordinator, Brennan is supporting initiatives to celebrate Pride Season. Alongside her team, Brennan is excited to host a SAAS pride event on June 20, called Paint Your Pride, inviting the entire SMU community to create a large chalk mural in the Quad. She is also helping to develop a 2SLGBTQ+ community resource hub for SMU.ca.

“For me, it’s about community and making the world a better place for 2SLGBTQIA+ people.”

“There are all kinds of resources available at SMU for our community,” notes Brennan. “In addition to the RainBeau Committee and the Pride Society, we have the SMUSA Pride Centre and the SMUSA Women’s Centre, both on the 5th floor of the Student Centre. There are also health and wellness resources through the Student Health Clinic, Counselling Centre and the Sexual Violence Support Centre.” 

When asked what World Pride Month means to Brennan, she highlighted how her journey as a bisexual woman has strengthened her passion for helping create a sense of belonging. “For me, it’s about community and making the world a better place for 2SLGBTQIA+ people. Pride Season gives us a chance to amplify our messages of love and tolerance and acknowledge those who helped pave the way for us and those who carry on the important work for our community.” 

Brennan is thrilled to be a part of this year’s Pride initiatives at SMU. “It’s so important to give our voices a platform,” she notes. “Hearing from people at SMU who are going about their lives, whether they’re working or studying here, really enhances that sense of community on campus. Knowing that SMU wants to share our stories reinforces that we belong here and that we don’t stand alone.” 

Visit Celebrating Pride at Saint Mary’s to learn more about initiatives and resources at SMU. 

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Celebrating Pride at Saint Mary's

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Photo credit: Brian Webb, HomoCulture | www.TheHomoCulture.com.

Pride Month in June acknowledges the 2SLGBTQI+ community (two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex all other gender identities such as asexual, pansexual, and polyamorous). It spotlights the resilience, celebrates the talent and recognizes the contributions of 2SLGBTQI+ communities.

In Halifax, Pride is celebrated with a festival, happening July 20-30. Throughout June and July, the Saint Mary’s community will celebrate pride with events and learning opportunities.

Follow @smuhalifax, @smu_studentlife and @SMUalumnihfx to see posts and alumni profiles shared throughout the month.

SMUSA Pride Centre

Open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Located on the 5th floor of the O’Donnell-Hennessey Student Centre

The Pride Centre offers a safe space for all members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community. SMUSA strives to create more events and resources for students within this community on campus and wants to create a welcoming and accepting environment for all. If you are looking for a hang-out spot, or place to study, check out our pride centre!


New Pride collection at the SMU Bookstore

The Saint Mary’s Campus Store has brand new Pride merch to help you celebrate in style! Available at the store in person from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday to Friday,
or order online.

DEI stories of success: 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion

Thursday, June 8
2–3 p.m.

This webinar for faculty and staff will discuss how organizations can demonstrate allyship towards individuals identifying as 2SLGBTQI+. DEI leaders discuss Canada's first Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action plan and share success stories of initiatives that lead to creating an inclusive and psychologically safe space for individuals identifying as 2SLGBTQI+.

Presented by the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion. Faculty and staff can register here (select Employer Partner to register for free).

Paint Your Pride!

Tuesday, June 20
11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
The Quad outside the O’Donnell-Hennessey Student Centre

Join Student Affairs and Services in the Quad to Paint Your Pride with chalk, play fun lawn games and enjoy snacks to celebrate Pride Month alongside your peers, staff and faculty!

Email studentsuccess@smu.ca for more information.

…and more!

More events taking in place in June and July will be announced. Check the Student Life events calendar for all upcoming events!

Related Content

 

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National Indigenous History Month

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National Indigenous History Month is an opportunity to learn about the unique cultures, traditions and experiences of First Nations, Inuit and Métis. It's a time to honour the stories, achievements and resilience of Indigenous Peoples. June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day.

This year, different themes will highlight specific aspects of Indigenous history, cultures and perspectives. These themes include Women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people; Environment, traditional knowledge and territory; Children and youth; Languages, cultures and arts; and Reconciliation.

Saint Mary’s University acknowledges it is in Mi’kma’ki, on the traditional land of the Mi’kmaq Nation. The Mi’kmaq flag flies proudly on Saint Mary’s campus.

Follow @smuhalifax, @smu_studentlife and @SMUalumnihfx to see posts and alumni profiles shared throughout the month.

Announcing the Interim Indigenous Student Advisor 

The Indigenous Student Advisor provides support to Saint Mary’s students.

Kyle Cook BA'23 (he/him) is the Interim Indigenous Student Advisor at Saint Mary's University. Originally from Ktaqmkuk (Newfoundland), Kyle is a proud Mi'kmaw man and an active community member of Qalipu First Nation. He is a graduate of Saint Mary's University, BA'23, with a double major in Criminology and Social Justice/Community Studies.

Kyle can be contacted via email at indigenous.advisor@smu.ca or in person at Burke 114.

Indigenous Student Ambassador

New students coming to Saint Mary’s can meet with Kaylee Denny, Indigenous Student Ambassador with Recruitment and Marketing.

Kaylee (she/her) is a second-year Indigenous student at Saint Mary’s, pursuing a degree in Bachelor of Science majoring in Biology. She grew up on the beautiful island of Unama’ki and lives in a Mi’kmaw community called Eskasoni.

Contact Kaylee isa@smu.ca or book a virtual meeting.

Learn more about Indigenous Student Supports at Saint Mary’s

Visit the Patrick Power Library to browse the National Indigenous History Month collection

Patrick Power Library

The Patrick Power Library is featuring a collection of library resources for National Indigenous History Month, on display on the ground floor of the library. Book recommendations will be shared online throughout the month on our social channels (@smuhfxlibrary). All books can be borrowed with your SMU ID card, or accessed online using your SMU email and password.  

Browse the full National Indigenous History Month collection online.

Also, check out the library’s Indigenous Studies guide, with more book recommendations, suggested journals, databases, government information, and other resources.

Reconciliation: Sisters on the path

Thursday, June 15
2–3 p.m.

This webinar for faculty and staff brings together Indigenous and non-Indigenous voices to reflect on what reconciliation means to them on a personal, organizational, community, and national level and how to best forge a path forward together.

Presented by the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion. Faculty and staff can register here (select Employer Partner to register for free).

Back to Breath

Friday, June 30
11 a.m.-12 p.m.
CLARI, Atrium 340

Join Kyle Cook, Interim Indigenous Student Advisor, for a guided breathwork session open to the Indigenous community and non-Indigenous allies alike.

The session will be centred in reflection, incorporating meditation strategies, and exploring the connection and consciousness of place and language. In furthering our commitment to truth and reconciliation, we will be unpacking words like Pjila'si and how they resonate with our lived experiences.

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A guide for faculty and staff: five ways to support institutional accessibility

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May 28-June 3 marks National Accessibility Week; an opportunity to celebrate the valuable contributions and leadership of Canadians with disabilities and highlight the work of people, organizations and communities that are removing barriers. At Saint Mary’s, the Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility (formerly the Fred Smithers Centre for Students with Disabilities) is a leader in institutional student accessibility.

This year, the theme for National AccessAbility Week is “Disability Inclusion: From Possibilities to Practice”. As part of our Accessibility Week initiatives, we have developed a guide with five easy steps that faculty and staff can incorporate into their practice to help enhance learner accessibility at SMU.

“With the evolving landscape of accessibility in learning, it is crucial that we take a user-centered approach to modernizing our offerings,” says Kate McHugh, Manager, Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility (FSCSA). “It is also imperative that we equip those on the frontlines of student education and care with knowledge and resources to put our best foot forward in accessibility and accommodation.”

Below are five steps for faculty and staff that can help enhance accessibility across campus.

1.     Familiarize yourself with the Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility

We are a unique team comprised of two accessibility advisors, an education employment advisor, two exam accommodation administrators, several part-time exam and testing invigilators, an accessibility resource assistant and the FSCSA manager. Many on our team experience some form of disability so our varied experiences paired with our cumulative training and backgrounds provide a unique and well-rounded insight into supporting students who experience disability.

Within the scope of FSCSA, we work directly with students in supporting their academic journey, provide various assistive technologies, employment skills and future readiness, access to grants, educational materials and services, exam and testing accommodations and more.

We also work with stakeholders across Saint Mary’s to raise our level of accessibility pan-campus and enhance the experience for all within the SMU community who experience disability. Our efforts extend beyond the SMU walls and into the broader national institutional community. Members from the FSCSA team recently represented Saint Mary’s at the Atlantic Association of College and University Student Services (AACUSS) to present on supporting adaptive exam and testing accommodations in unprecedented circumstances.

 

2. Understand what is included in the scope of disability

While traditional or commercialized perceptions of disability fixate on mobility impairments, disability covers a wide range of reduced or impaired functions that can present in visible and/or invisible ways and be on a short or long-term basis. Some common disabilities that exist within the institutional landscape include but are not limited to mental illness, learning disability, ADD/ADHD, hearing impairment, visual impairment, mobility impairment, medical condition and autism spectrum disorder. Students registered with the Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility have provided both a detailed application and supporting medical documentation.

The FSCSA provides personalized support for each student based on their individual needs. Since disability can present itself in unique ways for each student, it is of the utmost importance to offer flexibility, options, and customized plans of action for each student. The FSCSA team, and the students it supports, rely on the flexibility and consideration of staff and faculty to achieve an inclusive learning environment that is accessible to all.

 

3. Take time to evaluate inclusivity

Whether in the classroom, hosting an event, preparing content, developing visual supports, or conducting assessments, there are quick considerations that can help ensure an accessible and inclusive environment. Below are some considerations:

  • Work with university resources like the Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility, the Learning Studio and department communications staff to develop accessible course materials, documents and presentations, visual and graphic components, and more.

  • When hosting an event or gathering, evaluate physical access of a space, including entrance and exit points of the building and room, accessible seating and accessible washrooms.

  • Consider offering a virtual alternative for those unable to attend in person.

  • Use inclusive, person-first language. Saint Mary’s provides guidance on inclusive language within the Saint Mary’s Style Guide.

  • Add information on disability and accommodation to your course syllabus. Here’s a boilerplate you can copy/paste:
    “If you qualify for accommodations because of a disability, please ask The Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility to submit your accommodations to your faculty member in a timely manner so that your needs can be addressed. The Fred Smithers Centre determines accommodations based on documented disabilities in the academic environment. Information on requesting accommodations is located on the Fred Smithers Centre’s website. Contact The Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility (902)420-5452 or email fredsmithers.centre@smu.ca for further assistance.”

 

4. Refer students to the FSCSA as needed

In some instances, a student may not be registered with the Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility for whatever reason but may confide in a staff or faculty member about experiencing a disability. It is important to maintain trust and confidentiality, so please do not seek out FSCSA accommodations on their behalf. Instead, help them feel validated in their experience and provide them with information about SMU accessibility and accommodation to help them make an informed decision on whether to register with the FSCSA.

 

5. Keep learning

Where capacity permits, take some time to check out additional learning resources. Below are some great options:

 

The Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility team is happy to answer questions, offer guidance and provide resources for faculty and staff, in our shared effort to enhance accessibility for learners. Reach out by phone (902)420-5452 or email fredsmithers.centre@smu.ca, or stop by the offices in the Student Centre, 3rd floor, room 309.

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Student perspective: experiencing disability and enhancing accessibility

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Madison (Maddy) Brophy is a fourth-year student majoring in English and minoring in Psychology at Saint Mary’s. She also lives with an invisible disability—epilepsy—which presents in the form of grand mal or tonic-clonic seizures.

Maddy Brophy, fourth-year student

As someone who experiences disability, Brophy has the right to certain academic accommodations, but she almost didn’t register with the Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility after starting at Saint Mary’s due to the invisible nature of her disability.

“I had to get over my own misconceptions and barriers of what disability means,” explains Brophy. “I was diminishing my own experience because I didn’t feel like my disability was enough to warrant accommodation.”

Brophy’s academic experience became unpredictable due to her epilepsy. Seizure flare-ups and recovery medication can often leave her forgetful, disoriented and extremely fatigued, making it difficult to maintain academic consistency at times. Eventually, Brophy registered with the Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility (FSCSA) and was immediately put at ease.

“There were so many aspects of experiencing disability and suffering in silence that I had never considered,” notes Brophy. “The FSCSA team helped me feel validated in my experience and not only taught me about my rights but also taught me how to advocate for myself and my needs.”

“Accessing the accommodations available as a student with a disability has been of paramount importance to my university career,” describes Brophy, whose academic experience greatly improved with the support of the FSCSA. “It has made me realize how crucial institutional accessibility is to so many.”

With an ignited passion for student accessibility, Brophy recently secured a role with Student Affairs and Services (SAAS) as a Communications Assistant, supporting the development of student-centric communications with an emphasis on enhancing the digital accessibility of content. Working jointly with Communications and the Fred Smithers Centre, Brophy will spend the summer auditing SAAS web pages, updating content and making recommendations to raise the level of accessibility to meet or surpass Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).

“There are so many barriers faced by people who experience disability,” shares Brophy. “I’m excited to be on a team that works to reduce those barriers and make our little corner of higher education more accessible to all.”

In reflecting on her own journey as a student with a disability, Brophy has an important message to share for current and future students. “The supports are here for YOU. Your experience is valid and there is no shame in asking for the support that SMU has made available for students who experience disability.”

To learn more about student accessibility and accommodations, visit The Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility. 

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Ramadan in Unity brings SMU Muslim community together

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Ramadan, one of the holiest months of the Islamic calendar, began on March 22. It is marked by compulsory acts guided by the five pillars: faith, prayer, charity, fasting and making the pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca. Those taking part in Ramadan participate in daily fasting during daylight hours, having one meal, Suhoor, before the sun rises and one meal, Iftar, after the sun sets. Prayer also takes place five times a day during the month-long observance.

“Here at Saint Mary’s, we have a diverse community of learners, faculty and staff,” notes Lynn Cashen Basso, Assistant Director, Student Culture and Experience, Student Affairs and Services (SAAS). “Through various initiatives, we strive to support an inclusive, safe and welcoming environment for all.”

Iftar kits were prepared by the Student Success Centre and SMUSA Community Food Room

This year, SAAS undertook several initiatives to support those within the SMU community who were observing the holy month of Ramadan. “It is important to create opportunities for open and inclusive dialogue that reinforces our commitment to fostering a community that is based on respect and belonging,” elaborates Cashen Basso.

Led by the division of Student Culture and Experience, SAAS, in collaboration with both the Saint Mary’s Muslim Students Association and Saint Mary’s Students Association (SMUSA), the university coordinated the creation of new guidelines for the multi-faith space where students could step away for prayer throughout the day without having to leave campus with extended hours for Ramadan.

The Community Food Room, a shared initiative with SAAS and SMUSA, handed out 266 Iftar kits over five distribution days to support those breaking fast at sundown. Most notably, the International Student Centre collaborated with the Saint Mary’s University Muslim Society to host the inaugural Ramadan in Unity event.

“To have the opportunity to openly acknowledge Ramadan at Saint Mary’s is extremely meaningful,” explains Ammar Abdul Shakoor, President, Muslim Students Association. “This ensures that Muslim students feel welcomed and know they have a safe space on campus.”

The event was open to members of the Saint Mary’s—and broader Halifax—Muslim community, as well as non-Muslim students across the city. “We wanted an opportunity to share our holy month and its significance in Islam with our peers,” Shakoor elaborates. “Our goal was simply to unite and come together as one in a welcoming environment, which is why we called the event, Ramadan in Unity.”

Ramadan in Unity boasted special guest speakers, SMU President, Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray, the Ummah Masque Imam, Abduallah Yousri, community leader, advocate and local Imam Mohammed Yaffa, and SMUSA Vice-President of Events, Toky Tajwar.

“Religion and faith are of paramount importance to many at Saint Mary’s,” describes President Summerby-Murray. “Supporting our students, faculty and staff in this way reinforces our commitment to providing a safe and inclusive academic environment and allows us opportunities to learn from each other and broaden understandings that go beyond our own lived experiences.”

To learn more about Ramadan, visit Islamic Relief Canada.

Nova Scotia wildfires: support and information

Dear SMU community,

This is a difficult time for the thousands of people who have been displaced by the ongoing wildfires in Tantallon, Shelburne and the surrounding areas.

We are all very concerned for those affected, especially members of our faculty, staff and student body, and our alumni community. Please know that the Saint Mary’s community is here to help however we can.

Below are some links to resources that may help at this time:

For impacted faculty and staff

  • Faculty and staff members are encouraged to make use of the Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP), which offers an array of supports. 

  • There is also specific assistance available to SMUFU members; details can be found on the website.

  • A reminder that hotelling workstations are available on campus for anyone needing to work on premises. You can find details and book a space here: www.smu.ca/about/facilities-finance-admin.html. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Angela Dunn angela.dunn@smu.ca or facilities.management@smu.ca.

  • Any faculty or staff who have been impacted by the fires can access compassionate leave for APC staff, or special leave for unionized staff as per respective collective agreements. These special leaves were created specifically to help faculty and staff dealing with emergency situations. If you have questions about this, please contact your supervisor, chair or hr@smu.ca.

Help for students

  • A wide range of student supports can be found at www.smu.ca/supports. This is being communicated widely via our main social media channels (@SMUHalifax).

  • Those needing more specific assistance may contact student.services@smu.ca. 

Shower facilities at the Homburg Centre

  • Athletics and Recreation has advised that anyone impacted by the fires is welcome to use the shower facilities at the Homburg Centre. Please just come to the front desk for assistance.

(NEW) Temporary emergency accommodations

  • The Housing & Conference Services team is making free temporary, emergency accommodations available in Loyola South and Vanier on a first-come, first-served basis to any faculty, staff or students who have been displaced. Please contact conference.services@smu.ca or call 902-420-5055 for information and assistance. For hours of operation for various food services on campus, visit smuca.campusdish.com.

In light of these stressful circumstances, faculty are asked to consider leniency where possible for affected students, and I encourage all to extend compassion to our colleagues in the coming days.

We will continue to monitor the situation, and if we have any updates to provide, we will do so via mass email or social media on our @smuhalifax channels. You can also visit the Halifax Fire and Emergency Management website for ongoing updates and important information about transit, comfort centres and more: www.halifax.ca/fire-police/fire/emergency-management/fires-tantallon-hammonds-plains

Please take care and stay safe.

Rob Summerby-Murray
President and Vice-Chancellor 

Construction of temporary Huskies stadium seating

Work began this week on the construction of temporary stadium seating in preparation for the CFL Touchdown Atlantic game that will be held on campus on July 29, 2023.

This work is expected to run from May 10 until May 24. During this time, there may be some noise and activity associated with the construction. Additionally, the Homburg members’ parking lot (see 9 on Campus Map below) will be closed to vehicle and foot traffic while construction is completed.

Thank you for your understanding and support as we prepare for this very exciting event at Saint Mary’s. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Greg Knight, Assistant Director, Athletics & Recreation (greg.knight@smu.ca) or Janelle McNulty, Director, Quality Initiatives & Transformation (janelle.mcnulty@smu.ca).

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Survivor Love Letters: A show of support in honour of Sexual Assault Awareness Month

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Sexual Violence Prevention Initiative team (Left to right, top to bottom): Dee Dooley, Sally Oppong, Jordyn Monaghan, Krystal Lowe, Olivia Landy

April was Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), a time for communities to come together to talk openly about sexual assault, increase knowledge and awareness, and help to make survivors feel acknowledged and supported.

As part of the annual awareness campaign, the Saint Mary’s Sexual Violence Prevention Initiative (SVPI) participated in a movement called “Survivor Love Letters”.

The initiative was started by artist and survivor, Tani Ikeda, who has become a well-known spokesperson for the survivor community. In 2012, Ikeda penned a letter to her younger self that closed with the words, “This is my survivor love letter.” From there, a letter-writing campaign rippled through survivor and ally communities.

This year, the SVPI encouraged members of the SMU community to pen similar letters to survivors sharing their heartfelt messages of support and validation. Faculty, staff and students submitted anonymous messages which were then posted around campus to demonstrate support and help start open conversations.

“We wanted to engage in the Survivor Love Letters movement at SMU to foster a sense of community while letting survivors know that they are not alone and that they are believed,” explains Krystal Lowe, Coordinator, Sexual Violence Prevention Initiative. “By sharing these letters and talking openly about sexual violence, we help create survivor-centered resources and reinforce messages of resilience, resistance and hope that can be accessed all throughout the year”

The Sexual Violence Prevention Initiative, under the Sexual Violence Support Centre (SVSC) is a team of students who are passionate about the education and prevention of sexual violence at Saint Mary’s and beyond. “Creating awareness at an institutional level is crucial,” explains Dee Dooley, Sexual Violence Advisor, SVSC. “Campaigns like Sexual Assault Awareness Month and support initiatives like Survivor Love Letters help bring these issues to light and improve perceptions that can lead to a shift in cultural attitudes towards sexual violence.”

The SVPI received overwhelming support in the Survivor Love Letters movement. “The community engagement throughout this initiative has highlighted how much power there is in our collective voice,” states Lowe. “It honours survivors in the community and emphasizes the importance of sharing experiences in a way that lets survivors empathize with one another and realize that they are not alone.”

The letters resounded with expressions of affirmation that survivors are valid, loved, worthy and believed. “Regardless of what happened, your experience, emotions, and trauma are valid,” shares one anonymous author. “Our experiences do not define us,” writes another author. “Our voices matter.” The letters will be made available for viewing through the Sexual Violence Support Centre.

The Sexual Violence Support Centre at Saint Mary’s provides support, learning resources and events for students.