The University of Victoria is aware that a divisive public talk is being planned on our campus on Dec. 2, 2025.
I want to assure you that the university remains steadfast in our pledge to uphold ʔetalnəw̓əl̓ | ÁTOL,NEUEL | respecting the rights of one another and being in right relationship with all things. We honour the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities. As articulated in our Indigenous Plan, we honour the self-determining rights of Indigenous People and recognize that doing otherwise perpetuates harm.
Organizers of the event did not advise the university and did not submit a request to host it on our campus. As such, this event is not sanctioned by our university and is not authorized to take place on our campus.
I know events like this are impactful and members of our community are experiencing harm as a result. Please know that resources and supports are available on campus and in our community (linked below). In moments like this, our strength lies in unity and in living our values. We must support one another and affirm the inclusive, respectful culture we can only build together.
Please take care of one another,
Qwul’sih’yah’maht, Dr. Robina Thomas, Acting President
Supports and resources
As posts and dialogue related to these events are impactful, please know that resources, supports and opportunities for connection are available for Indigenous Students including drop-In spaces. For more information, please connect with [email protected]
Counselling for Indigenous students
Indigenous counsellors provide individual and group counselling that treat the heart, body, mind and spirit for Indigenous students. Indigenous counselling sessions are flexible in length, you are seen on the spot for emergency appointments and in general, you can meet with the Indigenous counsellor without having to wait too long.
Hope for Wellness Helpline
A 24-hour resource available across Canada, supports are available about a whole range of issues which can include mental health concerns, anxiety, coping with stories in the media and getting connected with supports in your area. The counsellors are available to talk to you about any topic or concern that you are facing. Both telephone and online chat services are available in English and French. Telephone support is also available upon request in: Cree; Ojibway (Anishinaabemowin) and Inuktitut.
KUU-US Crisis Line Society
The KUU-US Crisis Line Society operates a 24-hour provincial Aboriginal crisis line for adults/Elders and youth.
Adults/Elders: 250-723-4050
Children/Youth: 250-723-2040
Toll-free Line: 1-800-588-8717
SupportConnect
SupportConnect is a free, confidential mental-health support service for UVic students. You can connect with qualified counsellors, consultants and life coaches by phone or online 24/7. Video or in-person options are available.
Toll-free (calls from North America): 1-844-773-1427
International collect calls: 1-250-999-7621
Indian Residential School Survivors Society Crisis Line
24-hour crisis line for survivors and family of survivors. Toll-Free: 1-866-925-4419
First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) Mental Health Benefits
FNHA partners with Indigenous Services Canada to offer a comprehensive mental-health plan to First Nations in BC. The plan covers counselling services from qualified mental-health providers, including psychologists, clinical counsellors and social workers.
Here2Talk
Connects students to mental-health support when they need it. Through this program, all students currently registered in a BC post-secondary institution have access to free, confidential counselling and community-referral services, conveniently available 24/7 via app, phone and web.
The Vancouver Island Crisis Line
24-hour crisis line service to Vancouver Island, the islands of the Georgia Strait, and the mainland communities between Powell River and Rivers Inlet, as defined by Island Health. It operates 365 days a year. Crisis workers provide short-term, non-judgmental emotional, support, crisis intervention, information and resources. Toll-free: 1-888-494-3888
