In response to the emotional toll stemming from the ongoing violence in Palestine, Israel and now Lebanon, York University will host a series of events from Oct. 7 to 10. These are designed to bring the community together, whether to engage in thoughtful and respectful dialogue or to find compassion and comfort. The gatherings will provide students, faculty and staff with a space to express grief, learn and exchange with others, and access support.
Recognizing the impact of these global conflicts on its diverse campus community, the University has organized events to offer both formal and informal opportunities for community members to express their grief and worries, reflect on the past year, and engage with the issues and with one other. There will also be opportunities for interested participants to learn from one another. Counselling and resources to support community members will be available each day.
“Our intention is to respond to the pain and worries that many York community members have experienced over the last year and continue to experience, including on our campuses” explains Laina Bay-Cheng, vice-president equity, people and culture. “At the same time, we are a highly diverse community, and people will find and feel support in different ways. We are trying to offer a range of programming so that people standing at all different positions – whether in their roles and/or on the issues – will feel acknowledged, respected and supported.”
The events are part of York’s broader commitment to nurturing a supportive community, particularly as many grapple with the repercussions of ongoing violence and suffering abroad. For many, these conflicts directly affect family and friends. The University hopes the gatherings will provide a space for reflection and connection, where people can come together and find solace.
“These events are meant to create a space for those who are interested in coming together,” adds Yvette Munro, vice-provost students. “Grief and trauma affect everyone differently, and we want to ensure there is a space where all voices are respected and everyone feels supported.”
In addition to offering safe spaces for reflection, the events will follow the principles of the President’s Initiative on Open & Respectful Dialogue. This framework encourages participants to engage in thoughtful and respectful conversations, even when addressing difficult topics.
Events are organized over four days with a series of community and faith-based gatherings, panel discussions and learning opportunities. Each day has a dedicated focus:
- Events on Monday, Oct. 7 are for people grieving losses experienced by Israelis and the wider Israeli and/or Jewish diaspora.
- Events on Wednesday, Oct. 9 are for people grieving losses experienced by Palestinians and the wider Palestinian and/or Arab diaspora.
- The Tuesday and Thursday events will be devoted to finding common ground.
Event details, including links for registration, can be found on the Better Together website.
“As we come together during this time of ongoing grief,” says Alice MacLachlan, vice-provost and dean, graduate studies, “we are reminded of the power of conversation and compassion. By supporting one another and engaging in respectful dialogue, we can help York University remain a safe, inclusive and welcoming space for all.”