Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

School of music 2023 group photo

UVic is committed to upholding the values of equity, diversity, and inclusion in our living, learning and work environments. We know that diversity underpins excellence, and that we all share responsibility for creating an equitable, diverse and inclusive community. We recognize that many of the identities of members of groups with historical and/or current barriers to equity intersect and that therefore, equity, diversity and inclusion can be complex. We value the contributions that each person brings and are committed to ensuring full and equal participation for all in our community.

School of Music mission statement

The School of Music is committed to promoting and supporting diversity, and fostering an inclusive and equitable environment for learning, teaching, and research.

Our process for listening to concerns

The EDI committee wants to hear your concerns about EDI issues in the School of Music. We can also provide information about resources and support services available to you at UVic and guide you through processes.

We value confidentiality, fairness, and professionalism in our interactions with students, faculty and staff. All matters discussed with the director and EDI committee will be kept confidential unless you give explicit permission to disclose, or if the matter falls under exceptional circumstances covered by University of Victoria policies. 

If you need immediate assistance regarding an EDI concern, please contact:

  • Campus Security (emergency, open 24 hours a day): 250-721-7599
  • Crisis Phone Support for BC (open 24 hours a day): 1-866-661-3311

The School of Music’s EDI committee members

Chair
Dr. M. Virginia Acuña (she/her)

Faculty representative
Prof. Joanna Hood (she/her) 

Undergraduate student representatives
Madison Blackman (she/her)
Gheana Valencia (she/her) 

Graduate student representative
Megan Harton (they/them)

  • If you are interested in joining the committee, please email the EDI committee.

Student Resources and FAQ

  • What do I do if I am having issues with an instructor?
    In most cases, it is appropriate to speak to the instructor. If you do not feel comfortable speaking to the instructor, then see our director, Dr. Luko. Ask Claire, our Administrative Assistant, to schedule an appointment. You can do this in person or via email at music@uvic.ca.

  • What do I do if I have a concern about a specific situation related to EDI?
    Contact the EDI committee or come see our director, Dr. Luko. Ask Claire, our Administrative Assistant, to schedule an appointment. You can do this in person or via email at music@uvic.ca.

  • Where can I meet BIPOC students?
    Faculty of Fine Arts students have a BIPOC Student Social, and room 108 in the Fine Arts building is available on Fridays from 12pm to 1pm for students to gather if they would like to. 

More resources

  • The office of Equity and Human Rights at UVic is a resource for all UVic community members, providing education, information, assistance, and advice in aid of building and supporting an inclusive campus.  EQHR provides support for sexualized violence and discrimination, harassment or workplace bullying, as well as Information on gender diversity and inclusion at UVic including educational opportunities for learning about gender diversity and creating gender-affirming environments.

  • The Office of the Ombudsperson is an independent, impartial, and confidential resource for undergraduate and graduate students and other members of the UVic community. The ombudsperson helps resolve student problems or disputes fairly.

  • Student Services provides programs and services that support conditions for student success and foster a healthy environment for students to engage and thrive in their learning and development.

  • Student Mental Health Resources includes counsellors, doctors, nurses and spiritual care providers.

  • Office of Student Life supports student engagement, development and well-being at UVic.

  • Society for Students with a Disability (SSD) is a post-secondary student advocacy group under the University of Victoria Students’ Union which promotes the full participation and inclusion of students who self-identify as having one or more disabilities at the University of Victoria.

  • Students of Colour Collective exists to create space that fosters community building and facilitates networking and gatherings for self-identified BIPOC folks.

  • First Peoples House is a social, cultural and academic centre for Indigenous students at UVic and serves as a safe and welcoming place that encourages the building of community. 

  • The Multifaith Centre provide one-on-one spiritual care as well as culturally diverse free weekly activities, events and programs