International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
On Mar. 21, 2023, the University of Victoria stands with people around the world against racial discrimination.
Statement from President Kevin Hall
Held every year on March 21, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is a global call to action against racism, discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerances.
For the University of Victoria, March 21 is an individual and collective call to action. Racism is present in our community and continues to be practiced in the systems that privilege people like me. Real change requires us to acknowledge this, educate ourselves and others, and to act! I invite you to learn more by reading the recent Inter-Cultural Association report on racism in Victoria.
UVic's new Equity Action Plan (EAP) is an important step toward change. The plan guides us, as individuals and as a university, in advancing equity, diversity and inclusion. It provides concrete goals by which we can create the conditions in which all members of our community feel a sense of belonging.
I urge each of us to recognize the experiences of racism in our community, take time to learn about how systems of oppression are embedded in our society and institution, and commit to actions that foster change. Start by exploring the reflection and action guides, suggested resources and actions in the EAP. I am committed to working with UVic's leadership team to ensure we are accountable for championing equity and advancing the goals of the Plan.
Let's work together to create a more vibrant, equitable and positive working and learning environment for everyone.
Kevin Hall, PhD
President and Vice-Chancellor
Events & workshops
Racism & Anti-Racism in Greater Victoria Workplaces: Results and Lessons for the University
Tuesday, Mar. 21
2 - 3 p.m.
Online
Learn about racism and anti-racism efforts in a university environment at this session with the Greater Victoria Local Immigration Partnership. All are welcome.
Kil KaahlGalangdal – "Hear Someone’s Voice Before You See Them"
Thursday, Mar. 23
9 - 11:30 a.m.
Online
At this workshop, part of UVic’s Anti-oppression Education Program, explore the intersectional societal and systemic attitudes and behaviours that perpetuate oppression.
Defying Hitler: Resistance by the Persecuted
Thursday, Mar. 23
4:30 - 5:50 p.m.
Join multiple teaching award winner Dr. Kristin Semmens for a public talk and the launch of her new book, Under the Swastika in Nazi Germany.
You can also see Semmens at Café Historique in May.
Lehan Lecture: Charles Campbell
Thursday, Mar. 23
7:30 - 9 p.m.
Fine Arts Building, Room 103
As the inaugural Lehan Family Activism & the Arts Lecturer, Charles Campbell discusses his work to examine and disrupt the fictions embedded in our colonial reality.
Mojada
March 16-25, 2023
The Phoenix Theatre’s production of Mojada is set in contemporary East LA with undocumented Mexicans, but according to guest director Carmen Aguirre, “its theme of exile and the violence of assimilation makes it universal.” The play spotlights LatinX culture within the bitter reality of America’s immigration system.
Resources
Equity Action Plan
The Equity Action Plan provides UVic with strategic direction to advance equity, diversity and inclusion and to create the conditions in which everyone feels a sense of belonging.
Library guide on anti-racism
This library guide provides suggested readings, books and videos to support your reflective and teaching practices about anti-racism.
Anti-racist history and theory
Learn about anti-racist history and theory with these helpful factsheets, created by UVic students in the departments of history and gender studies as well as social justice studies under the tutelage of Dr. Georgia Sitara.
Preferential and limited hiring
Our preferential and limited hiring program helps the university achieve diverse and equitable representation in the workplace.
Grants
Student Life Grant & Anti-Racism Supplement
Up to $1,000 is available for student-led initiatives that enhance student life at UVic through the Student Life Grant. An additional $500 is available through the A nti-Racism Supplement for initiatives that focus on addressing racism, using anti-racist strategies.
Anti-Racism Initiative Grant
These anti-racism initiative grants are intended to support faculty and staff to design and create new course materials or revise course, programs and curriculum that will help fulfill UVic’s commitment to anti-racism.