It is with collective grief and mourning that we reflect upon the tragedy that occurred in Tumbler Ridge, BC, earlier this week. The heartache of the family, friends, and all members of that small community at this time is unimaginable. The fact that this act was largely perpetrated in a place of learning also brings it close to home for our colleagues and students.
As we reflect upon and try to come to terms with what has happened, it is also important to be careful about our messaging. The fact that the young adult at the centre of this horrific act happened to be trans has already compounded this tragedy with false and politicised claims. Here in Alberta, we are acutely aware that recent anti-trans legislation is impacting youth within the educational system, including at the U of L. The recent Teach-in day about Charter rights provided an important moment to instruct and reflect on trans rights in the larger context of human rights, and the need for understanding and awareness is only likely to be heightened now, as this recent article from the CBC points out. We must not permit this tragedy to fall into the well-worn pattern of being used as justification to target, harass, or discriminate against members of a particular community, in this instance because of their gender.
In this very difficult moment, if you need support you may find it here:
Canadian Mental Health Supports: Mental Health Supports
Learning through Loss: https://www.learningthroughloss.org/
Trans Lifeline: https://translifeline.org/ (877) 330-6366
