President Steenkamp: Wherever you are coming from, you are safe here

This past weekend, I publicly denounced the attacks by Hamas and Islamic Jihad in Israel. I know that many of us are struggling to process feelings of shock, anger and grief as we learn more about the scale and brutality of these attacks, including the deliberate targeting of civilians. I extend my deepest condolences to all affected. 

"I would especially like our students, who come to us from all over the world, to hear this message: you are safe with us. You have a place here, at Royal Roads University. You can bring all aspects of yourselves to your work and studies, and we – as a community – are stronger for it."

I recognize that there are many different perspectives on the causes of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and that, as a university, we have a responsibility to support and encourage free expression. However, this does not extend to hate speech and does not excuse us from the moral duty to unequivocally condemn acts of terror no matter the context. Sadly, over the next days, weeks and months the conflict is sure to deepen with civilians bearing the brunt.

Times like these are very challenging so please know that we are here to support you. And I ask that you support each other, and join together as a community in our quest for a more equitable, inclusive and just world. I would especially like our students, who come to us from all over the world, to hear this message: you are safe with us. You have a place here, at Royal Roads University. You can bring all aspects of yourselves to your work and studies, and we – as a community – are stronger for it.

If you are in need of support, please remember that Royal Roads has resources to help.

• For students, access free and confidential support through the RRU counselling, accessibility and wellness services.
• For faculty and staff, access confidential professional counselling and referral services from our provider, Walmsley.

If at any time, you feel unsafe on campus, please call RRU campus security 250.391.2525.

And please know, as always, that I am so glad you are part of our community. Take good care of yourselves and one another during these difficult times.