The values of diversity, inclusion, respect, and civility are fundamental to the University of Toronto. Discrimination or harassment of individuals or groups based on race, religion, ancestry, place of origin, ethnic origin, citizenship, or any other identity as stated in the University’s Statement on Human Rights is intolerable.
At the same time, we are profoundly committed to the principles of free inquiry and free expression as cornerstones of the academy. By their very nature, tolerance, respect, diversity, and inclusion are not in tension with academic freedoms. On the contrary, they ground such freedoms.
We and our predecessors have reaffirmed these principles and values many times, in response to particular circumstances.
Recently members of the community have expressed concerns about the presence of anti-Semitism on our campuses. Anti-Semitism is an ancient and pernicious form of hatred directed towards members of the Jewish community and the Jewish community as a whole. It remains a dangerous source of discrimination, harassment, and violence today and a threat to all free societies.
Others at the University have raised concerns about anti-Black racism and Islamophobia. We share the concern that such acts are equally distressing and harmful to individuals, communities and to the University of Toronto community more broadly. On behalf of the University of Toronto, we condemn racism and discrimination in all its forms.
We invite all members of the community to review the University’s relevant policies, which are listed below.
The University of Toronto is strongly committed to the values reflected in these policies. This is demonstrated not only in official statements and actions, but above all in the way members of the U of T community conduct themselves on a daily basis. We thank them for their example and for their many contributions to the culture of tolerance which is fundamental to our mission of research and teaching.
Cheryl Regehr
Vice-President and Provost
Meric S. Gertler
President