As the McMaster community remembers the victims of the mass shooting in Buffalo and stands together in condemnation of racial violence against the Black community, we must continue to press ahead with efforts to educate, resist and eradicate systemic racism.

We’re more aware than ever of the need for initiatives like the Scarborough Charter on Anti-Black Racism and Black Inclusion, which brought together EDI leads from Canadian universities a few days ago. (Click here to learn more about the Scarborough Charter.)

We remain steadfast in our commitment to addressing racial violence, to redressing systemic racism and to continuing to support Black excellence.

If you are struggling or know someone who is, please reach out for help. Here are some resources:

Students

• The Student Wellness Centre offers counselling and other supports, including monthly IBPOC Tea and Talk events.
• The Black Student Success Centre is open and offers a safe space for Black students to meet, share, socialize and access specialized programming. You can also follow the BSSC on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.
• Contact the Equity and Inclusion Office, or Tolulope Ojo Coordinator, Anti-Black Racism Initiatives
• Visit Good2Talk online or call 1-866-925-5454: Available 24/7, for undergrad students in Ontario
• Grad students: Find the EmpowerMe helpline number for your location, available 24/7 in multiple languages, for all local and overseas grad students.

For faculty and staff

Support is available through the Employee & Family Assistance Program:
online at Homewood Health or you can call toll-free in English; toll-free in French; or TTY

May those who lost their lives in the Buffalo shooting rest in peace ?. We remain optimistic that the future can be free of anti-Black racism. Take care of yourself, beloveds. pic.twitter.com/w4kRu8Ehan

— McMaster Black Student Success Centre (@MacBSSC) May 18, 2022