October 29, 2013
Dear members of UBC’s Vancouver campus community:
Today UBC joined the RCMP for a press conference that revealed new, disturbing information about the spate of sexual assaults on our Vancouver campus.
This is a time of stress for everyone in our community and I, like you, am extremely concerned by these developments. I am grateful to the RCMP who have made this a top priority. Their investigation is critical to restoring the safety of our campus and UBC is working closely with them to solve this crime. If you have information that could help the RCMP in their investigation, I urge you to contact them (1-800-222-TIPS).
We are working with our campus leaders – staff, faculty and students – to continue enhanced campus security and increase support for our campus community. This is now our number one priority, and we are mobilizing all necessary resources to this end.
This latest news will no doubt be frightening to many of you, so if you feel you need to talk, please do not hesitate to make use of the UBC, AMS and RCMP counselling services listed on our new safety web site: http://www.ubc.ca/staysafe.
This new central web site will provide you with the latest information, safety tips and campus resources all in one hub.
In the days to come, until the alleged perpetrator is apprehended, I ask you to be extra vigilant. Make sure you have the information you need to stay safe. The ultimate choice is yours, but the RCMP is advising you not to walk alone after dark. Please look out for each other.
But above all, I believe this is not a time to give in to anxiety. This is a time to rally in support of one another, stand up against violence, and live out our commitment to a dynamic learning community free from fear.
Tell us what we can do better. Voice your concerns and take steps to make others feel safe during your daily activities.
We will get through this, together.
Stephen J. Toope
President and Vice-Chancellor