three things

In May, we celebrate Asian Heritage Month by recognizing and celebrating the contributions members of Asian communities have made to Canada, British Columbia, and our local communities. 

This month offers us all the opportunity to deepen our appreciation for the diversity of Asian cultures and learn more about the profound impact that people of Asian descent have had on our communities and the University.  

Dear colleagues,

Vancouver Island University recognizes Black History Month by acknowledging the accomplishments and contributions of Black students, faculty, staff and alumni in our community. We also recognize the importance of continuing to work towards equity, diversity and inclusion on our campus and taking action against racism.  

Dear VIU community, 

Today we have learned of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Our thoughts go out to her family and those who loved her.

Our flags at Vancouver Island University have been lowered to half-staff to mark the passing of a sovereign and in recognition of Queen Elizabeth’s seven decades as Canada’s head of state.  

Sincerely, 

Dr. Deborah Saucier

President and Vice-Chancellor

As we approach the long weekend, I would like to recognize Canadian Multiculturalism Day this week and share some thoughts as we approach Canada Day.

Both days honour the diversity of the communities that make up our country and celebrate their contributions to Canadian identity. As Canadians, both days are an opportunity to applaud how our cultural diversity contributes to a vibrant life and country. Canada Day is an opportunity to reflect and take pride in the many accomplishments that Canadians of all ethnicities and cultures have made to the world.

At VIU, we recognize June as Pride Month. It is a celebration of people coming together in love, diversity and inclusivity to show the progress of 2SLGBTQ+ rights while also acknowledging their history and the hardships. I celebrate our 2SLGBTQ+ students, faculty, and employees and share in the excitement that many Pride events returned to in person events this year.

In June, VIU recognizes National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21. We do this by acknowledging the rich history, heritage, culture, resilience, contributions and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples across Canada. 

We begin by acknowledging and thanking the Snuneymuxw, Quw’utsun, Tla’amin, Snaw-naw-as and Qualicum First Nation on whose traditional lands we teach, learn, research, live and share knowledge.

May is Asian Heritage Month in Canada, an opportunity to recognize the many achievements and contributions of all Canadians of Asian descent and all Asian cultures. The month is also a call to action for all Canadians to come together to combat all forms of anti-Asian racism and discrimination. 

The theme of Asian Heritage Month 2022 in Canada is “Continuing a legacy of greatness” and is an opportunity for us to learn more about the many achievements and contributions of Canadians of Asian heritage who, throughout our history, have done so much to build and enrich Canada.

Today, Tuesday, March 8, is International Women’s Day, celebrating women and girls’ social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. It is also a time to raise awareness, take action for women’s equality, and work towards a world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination.

Sent on behalf of President Dr. Deborah Saucier and Carolyn Russell, AVP International Education

On behalf of Vancouver Island University, we wanted to share how deeply concerned we are about the attacks that have occurred in Ukraine. We want to extend any supports we can for our community members who are impacted by these events. We are closely monitoring the situation across the region. We share your worries about the health and safety of loved ones who may be impacted, and our thoughts and prayers are with you.