Terrorist attack in Israel

Over the weekend the University of Calgary, along with the rest of the world, watched in horror at the events unfolding in Israel and Gaza.
 
A terrorist attack by Hamas targeted Israeli civilians with murder and kidnapping. We condemn these terrorist actions. Innocents on each side of the Gaza barrier are paying an unimaginable toll, and we are saddened by the loss of life and the families impacted.

What your university is doing

The University of Calgary is co-ordinating with other universities and all orders of government to ensure the safety of our community. We are also working with student and other groups to support affected members of the campus community.

• Students
  If you or someone you know needs emergency financial or mental health supports, Student Wellness Services can help. Or you can call 403-210-9355. After-hours options are also available for mental health support.
   
  The university also maintains a resource website of supports and services for UCalgary students who are experiencing serious events.
   
  The Faith and Spirituality Centre can be reached through interfaith@ucalgary.ca. International Student Services provides holistic support for international students through issimmigration@ucalgary.ca. 

• Faculty and staff
  Assistance is also available for benefit-eligible staff through the Employee Family Assistance Program, and there are resources for employees at Staff Wellness as well.

We are here to help. If you need supports that are not covered by the above, please reach out to my office at president@ucalgary.ca and we will try to assist.

What you can do to help

• Donate to Magen David Adom 
  The Israel member of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Magen David Adom accepts donations to support its emergency services. 

• Donate to Doctors Without Borders (MSF)
  MSF is co-ordinating donations of medical supplies to health facilities in Gaza to respond to urgent medical needs. Learn how to donate to MSF.

• Continue to be kind to each other
  While we all condemn terrorist acts against civilians, there are passionate and divergent feelings on the broader issue of Israel and the Palestinian territories. During discussions, please remember this is an emotional issue for many, some may have family directly affected, and you always have the ability to be kind. Respect the rights of others to disengage from any such discussion. Respect that opinions will legitimately differ based on values and a myriad of other matters.

As the situation continues to unfold, we will continue to look for how we, as a university, can support those affected.