09/04/2024
It is with incredibly heavy hearts that we write to announce the permanent closure of The Equity Centre. This was not an easy decision to make, and trust us when we say it hurts our hearts to know that so many students will be left without a safer space.
While we cannot provide the specific reasons for closure, it does have to do very much with censorship and the continuous marginalization of equity deserving individuals on campus. We refuse to be complicit in acts of oppression.
Since 2016, TEC has been able to provide safer spaces for students. We learned so much in the time that we were open. We've been able to see how our office made a positive impact on campus for the students we served. We built networks with staff and faculty; developed meaningful relationships with local organizations, and worked to create accessible and safer spaces on campus for students.
TEC functioned as more than just an advocate for safer spaces. We provided a space for students to just be, no questions asked. From popping in for a bowl of ramen, to spending the entire day in our office studying or doing art, every single one of the students that we engaged with impacted our lives in a significant way. We thank you for making us part of your journey through post-secondary education.
The purpose of TEC is to educate, advocate, and encourage allyship on campus. There can be no advocacy without activism, and both are necessary for education and progress.
Thank you for the many years you have given us. Without the support of the many staff, students, and faculty that we engaged with the work we've done would not have been possible. We wish all of you the best on your educational journey.
Please direct all inquiries and questions to our social media. Thank you.
Image descriptions
ID slide 1 text on black background with decorative people reads breaking news TEC closed effective immediately end of ID slide 1
ID slide 2 text on a purple background reads Effective immediately the university will be re-absorbing our office, A238. There will be no office hours or programming. The institution has implemented policies that directly contradict the mandate of TEC. ID slide 2 continued We refuse to be complicit with acts of oppression. The Executive Council cannot remain neutral as we witness equity deserving groups, which include the members of our team, suffer at the hands of the institution.
Students are the future. It is more important than ever to use your voice. Speak out. Voice your concerns to administration or support staff. The only way to make change is to challenge the dominant discourse. End of ID slide 2.
ID slide 3 text on a solid background reads ‘If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor. If an elephant has it’s foot on the tail of the mouse, the mouse will not appreciate your neutrality.’ End of ID slide 3.
ID slide 4 a variety of helplines are listed on the slides including information for Nipissing University students to contact mental health and wellnes at 705-474-3450 extension 4507. end of ID slide 4. End of image description