Universities should be known for learning and the free exchange of ideas – not for violence and disregard for human rights as the world has recently witnessed at Sharif and other universities in Iran.
The protests and attacks over the past few weeks resonate across universities globally. At McMaster, these have been particularly painful times for the many students, faculty and staff who are from Iran or who are of Iranian heritage as well as members of our community who are former students or research collaborators at Sharif. We want them to know they are not alone. For all of us who believe in women’s rights and human rights and that freedom of expression and academic freedom are fundamental parts of the university and our society, we watch in horror as these principles and values are torn apart in Iran.
At McMaster, we are committed to freedom of expression, and to the respectful exchange of diverse opinions through thoughtful debate.
I encourage anyone who needs assistance in these difficult times reaches out to McMaster groups and programs that are available to support you.
Sincerely,
David Farrar, President and Vice-Chancellor
We encourage our students to reach out to the following resources:
Faculty and staff can find support through the Employee & Family Assistance Program:
Contact Homewood Health through their website (www.homeweb.ca) or by phone toll-free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to book appointments, or access any EFAP service.