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I value all of you and will continue to strive to teach in ways that address transphobia and help create a more welcoming and accepting place inside and outside our university.

In solidarity,

Alex Da Costa, Associate Prof, Social Justice and International Studies in Education

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Always be yourself. It's too much work trying to be anyone else. Thank you for exemplifying the courage necessary to embrace who we truly are.

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Thank you for being you- the true you. You matter, you are loved, the world needs you! If there is one small thing I can do I believe that it is through education-it starts in my classroom. Being open, and creating a safe & caring environment by using correct pronouns & learning from the trans community and fostering a growth mindset.  All the love !

Sara van Leusden- Sessional Instructor - Faculty of Education

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I'm not too good with words, but I want you to know that you are loved. You're seen, you're heard, and you are cared for. You have people who support you, who are here to welcome you with open arms. Please take care, and take time for yourself in this busy world.

You are more than enough.

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Sending love, strength, and care to trans students, staff, and faculty. I stand in solidarity with you and I commit to fighting transphobic violence in this university and this world to ensure not just your survival but your flourishing.

- Beth Capper, Assistant Professor of Media Studies / EFS

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You are incredible, strong, powerful and loved! Thank you for being you. You make this world a better place :)

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You are loved! Thank you for your courage and for your voices. My classroom is a better space because of you.

Terri Tomsky, Associate Prof, English & Film Studies

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I seriously mean it! I love you so much! You deserve so much gentleness and softness. Remember that you dont need to be a die hard activist for every waking moment. Don't let people drain you by using you for emotional labour. Don't be afraid to set boundaries. Remember that you deserve love and sweetness and gentleness and softness.

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To all of my trans and gender nonconforming siblings: sometimes this world sucks, and the fact that we have a Day of Remembrance is evidence of that. However, it is also evidence that the world is accepting in some way. Things might not be great, but they're getting better. I can't wait for the time when this Day of Remembrance feels unnecessary to the current generation. I truly believe that we'll get there eventually, and it'll be such a joy to know that we helped get there, in whatever large or small way we each contributed. I love you all and we can do this thing!

-Andi, with love <3

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Dear transgender and gender diverse students & colleagues,

I see you and I am so grateful for the worlds of beauty, opportunity, and multitudinous ways of being that you open up! I am so grateful for your presence and will support you, your rights, your safety, and your beautiful humanity.

-April Dean, ATS Lecturer, Department of Art & Design

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Thank you for being here, and for enriching our community. It is an honor to learn from and listen to the amazing trans people in my life, and to see the tremendous dignity and courage they display in pursuing the life they want to live.
You are valued, and you are brave.
With love, and in solidarity,

Connor J. Thompson
PhD student

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It cannot be said enough: you are welcome here. Our community is enriched by having you a part of it.
You have as much a right to this space as any of us. Your lives and your stories are yours, and yours alone: you are welcome here without the precondition of having to explain who you are or how you got here.
Welcome.

James Muir
Vice Dean of Law

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In my experience, thank you for teaching me through your courage, passion and personality. I am a better person because of you.
Step into the light, shine so bright. Lights up, and you know who you are! (credit: Harry Styles)

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Thank you for your courage and being you! You are a role model for others and you are a worthy, valued human. I welcome the diversity and contributions you bring to our campus community <3

Nykkie Lugosi-Schimpf
Assistant Professor
Faculty of Native Studies

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"whatever you dream of / i believe you can be / from the stars in the sky to the fish in the sea.” - Kai Cheng Thom

In a world increasingly divided, violent, rigid, and oppressive, to be yourself in resistance to these forces is the most inspiring thing you can be. I am glad you are here. You make the world a better place.

- Emily Gerbrandt, ATS Instructor, Department of Socioloy and Department of Women's and Gender Studies

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I have had the joy of knowing one of the most inspiring, gifted and truly beautiful souls, who also happens to be a trans male. He has taught me so much, and I feel lucky to have had my path cross with his. You too can make meaningful change by just being your true self.

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Thank you for being here. Thank you for being you. Our University is better because you are here.

Jennifer Foote, Associate Professor,  Faculty of Education

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You make the world a more colourful and dynamic place by just being yourselves. I will always stand by your side.

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I know it may have taken some planning to get here. I know it may not always be easy. But I'm so glad you're here.

Jennifer Leo, The Steadward Centre for Personal & Physical Achievement, Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation

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“The reason we are persecuted is not because we lack but because we love. Because we love the parts of ourselves that other people have sundered with shame... We have the audacity to practice autonomy. To say that we are worthy of love in our difference and our individuality.” - Alok Vaid-Menon

In a world of increasing suspicion and targeted restriction, to be one’s true self is a revolutionary act. More than being brave, each moment of self-authenticity pushes against centuries-old barriers, creating new fissures and opening new spaces for those who live beyond the binary. To live with such honesty involves a level of self-love and acceptance that so many struggle to achieve.

From the communities that surround us, to the trans and gender non-conforming ancestors who have walked the earth since the beginning of humanity’s existence, we have always been here.

Thank you for being here with us.

Kristen D. Burton
ATS Instructor, Department of History, Classics, and Religion

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Thank you for being in my classroom, for making that classroom better and for having the courage to share your stories.

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I see you in the classes I teach, and I am happy to have you :)

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Speak confidently, speak honestly, and hold your head high. You are an important and valued part of our community.

Dr. Marta-Marika Urbanik, Department of Sociology

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You belong, you are important, and you are more than enough. You make this world a better place, not the folks who spread hate under the cover of tradition or 'morality.'

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I am so grateful for all of the beauty and joy you bring to the world and our community. I am grateful that you are here and that I get to share in this space with you! Sending all my love!

- Amber Henderson, Office of the Dean of Students

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To all of my trans siblings out there, especially my Black and African siblings. I see you; I hear you. Despite the pushback from the world, our existence is so pure and divine. We are wholly, beautifully, and carefully made by the creator. There are no imperfections in our being. I love you, and it gets much better. 🫶🏾

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I am committed to making our learning and social spaces inclusive and welcoming. I will learn from you how to be a better ally, I will amplify your voices, and I will show up for you and support you anytime you need it.

Marie-Eve Morin, Chair, Department of Philosophy

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We still have so much to do in the work of honouring trans and non-gender confirming folks. You matter, your experiences matter.

In the words of a mentor I've looked up to in my own teaching practice: "Know that you are loved." - Brad Burns

Waishing Lam, Secondary Education

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Know you are valued for who you are.

Dr. Sherry Woitte (Faculty of Education)

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No more fear, no more control. No need for masking who we are. Acceptance and love for all.

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I thank you for being you.  You are valued and important to me.  

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I thank you for being you.  You are valued and important to me.  

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Others have held space, just as you are holding space for others to express who they are despite the recrimination.  You inspire me.

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Each of your voices and stories beautifies the narrative of this university and the communities that live here. Thank you.

Blessie Mathew - Career Centre, URI, and WISEST

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Here to remember all my trans siblings, especially my BIPOC siblings. Here to remind cis people to donate directly to trans people in need, to uplift BIPOC trans women in particular, to remember the disproportionate amount of trans people who are homeless, out of work, killed, etc…, to not fetishize trans people. I’m also here to decolonize our trans spaces and to remind everyone that our community is not just full of thin able-bodied white people. BIPOC trans people are the building blocks of our community, black trans women in particular, and we deserve to be seen as the humans that we are.

This is also a sign to remember all of the joy and resilience in our community and to celebrate how wonderful it is to be transgender. I love being transgender, I love being two-spirit, I love my body and how we have changed together; and to all my siblings who don’t love their identity, then I send my love to you and hope you can unlearn the self hate that colonization and society has planted inside you.

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We have always been here, and will continue to be here. No legislation can erase us and no hatred can suppress us.

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Sending so much love to my trans colleagues, residents, friends, and community members. I am so grateful for your presence & your voices today, and every day.

- Cass Robertson, Residence Services

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“Your lives matter. Your voices matter. Your stories matter.” - Laverne Cox

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In being your authentic self, you make our university community stronger. You belong here and you are loved.

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I accept you. I value you.  You add to our professional and educational communities in  immeasurable ways.  I know  how important it is to a person's well-being to love yourself and accept yourself. ❤️  Your family, friends, and colleagues will follow. Accept yourself!  Love yourself! 💎

John R. Cocchio, Industrial Professor, Faculty of Engineering

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You are loved.
You are cherished.
You are celebrated.
You are you.

Thank you for being true to yourself and giving us the space to adore you as you are. Thank you for speaking up when you feel comfortable and educating us about your needs. I fully support you and everything that makes you who you are. Sending everlasting love 🏳️‍⚧️🤍

Fern Middleton

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I offer my deepest condolences for the lives lost and my promise to move through the world in ways that promote love and acceptance. I commit to continue my evolution as an ally to the transgender and gender-diverse community as I stand in solidarity with the brave and authentic transgender souls on our campus. I hope sharing my pronouns lets you know that you belong. I hope my smile tells you that you are enough - just as you are. I hope the future is better and brighter for your resilient community, from which I am honoured to have learned so much. The world needs diversity in all its forms, including gender. Thank you for being you.

Shannon MF Low, MPH Candidate
School of Public Health

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you belong here, your story makes the community better, you are worthy of life and deserve the opportunity to get an education in a safe and peaceful place.

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I'd like to amplify the words of trans, queer writer Vivek Shraya: "Stay caring. Stay Kind."

Kristine Smitka, Associate Lecturer
Department of English and Film Studies

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Thank you for your courage and bravery.  I am so proud of the strength you display despite the many challenges and obstacles you face.  You are amazing, you are wonderful, you are perfect.  Please never stop being true to yourself and blessing us all with your presence.

Clayton Pettit, Assistant Teaching Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering

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Thank you for enriching our community with your uniqueness and beauty. I see you, love you and respect you.

I am so lucky to work alongside you, to learn from you and to experience your strength and bravery each and every day. You inspire those around you to do better and I will do everything I can to create a community that is safe, welcoming and celebrates you for who you are.

Kevin Friese, Office of the Dean of Students

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Your agency matters! Keep letting your voice be heard. 👍
- Dr. Cruikshank, Assistant Lecturer

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with gratitude for You!
Keep being You!

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Discovering who you are is a beautiful process. Release the pressure to know yourself fully, immediately. You will change and grow and learn more about yourself for your entire life! Labels — if you like them — fit you, not the other way around. Embrace the uncertainty; it means you have so much more to learn, and that’s exciting!

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Thank you for being here, and for doing so as your authentic self.

James Wright, Computing Science

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Thank you for enriching our classrooms, our campus, and our lives every day.

In solidarity and love,

Siobhan Byrne

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You deserve love
You are here and you are beautiful.
If you are a student, please know that many of your teachers and fellow students see you and respect you.  You make this a better place to learn and to inhabit. Please know that we are also here to support you if you are struggling.
Danielle Fuller, Professor, English & Film Studies

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We see you, we appreciate you, you make our family better by being in it.

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Your presence in university spaces is a gift. I've treasured you in my classrooms. Trans presence and voices at UAlberta enhance learning and community in so many ways. Crucially, in my political theory courses you've helped me and others see conditioned ways we interpret gender and embodiment, how these structures and habits constrain us and harm others, and what it means to shift this in our consciousness and actions.

I'm sorry for the unjust obstacles put in your way and the shittiness that some power-holders (including profs) direct at you. May I and others continue to learn to be decent allies, as parts of an institution that so often serves the powerful and looks away from its own violence.

Your courage and resistance are a constant teaching.

Thank you for being you. You belong here.

David Kahane, Department of Political Science

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thank you for the wings you spread, the tales you tell, the breaths you take. you are so loved

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You are important. You belong here. You are a valued part of our community. You are appreciated and we care about you.

Bob Summers

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Two roads diverged in a yellow wood ... and I took the one less traveled by ... and that has made all the difference. (Robert Frost).

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You face many challenges, so I thank you for being strong and being here with us today.

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Thank you for being an important part of our university community. You are welcome here and belong here.

Joanna Auger, Associate Teaching Professor, Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation

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On this day, I just want to post these words from the wonderful writer, Ivan Coyote:

"Still here. Still trans. Still believe in trans joy. Trans solidarity. Trans art. Trans heart. I see you, my sisters. My brothers. My many siblings. Our our uncountable ways of being."

Deepest admiration and thanks to my trans students, colleagues, friends and family, for all that you teach me every day.

Alison Matthews, Instructor, Drama Department

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Your authenticity is beautiful. Don't let anyone ever tell you otherwise.

- Anna Priemaza, Assistant Lecturer, Department of Economics and Faculty of Law

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I am so so glad you are here.
You make this place, a better place, just by being you.

-Tyson Lazaruk, Faculty of Engineering

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As an Indigenous teacher, I learn everyday from my trans and gender non-conforming students, colleagues, and friends, how to be a better activist, ally, and human being. You are making the world a better place!

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We, the Department of Psychology EDI Committee, commit to working for inclusion for all trans and gender diverse people.
Christopher Sturdy, Professor of Psychology and Chair, Psychology EDI Committee

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Territorial Acknowledgement

The University of Alberta, its buildings, labs, and research stations are primarily located on the traditional territory of Cree, Blackfoot, Métis, Nakota Sioux, Iroquois, Dene, and Ojibway/Saulteaux/Anishinaabe nations; lands that are now known as part of Treaties 6, 7, and 8 and homeland of the Métis. The University of Alberta respects the sovereignty, lands, histories, languages, knowledge systems, and cultures of First Nations, Métis and Inuit nations.

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Territorial Acknowledgement The University of Alberta, its buildings, labs, and research stations are primarily located on the traditional territory of Cree, Blackfoot, Métis, Nakota Sioux, Iroquois, Dene, and Ojibway/Saulteaux/Anishinaabe nations; lands that are now known as part of Treaties 6, 7, and 8 and homeland of the Métis.

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Yes it might be hard now….but it WILL get better. Maybe not right away, and maybe not as fast as you want it to…but little by little it’ll get better and you’ll get where you want to be.

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Even if you don't feel validated, there will always be people in your life who will love you for who you are. Find those people and keep them close to you.

You are seen and loved. <3

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Thank you for being brave and living your truth every single day.

You are seen.
You are accepted.
You are loved.

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Dear queer family know that you are loved and  know that we have always been here since the first humans on this planet. Also know that you bring gifts and knowledge's that are needed more than ever.

Jean  O'Hara

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Thank you for bringing such richness to class discussions. I have learned so much, and it has helped me tremendously to understand your experiences as one of my beloved relatives is struggling with this right now.

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Thank-you for being you and bringing richness to our classroom and our campus and university. We need you here and we need to create brave spaces where you are welcomed to be authentic wonderful you!
Anne McIntosh, Associate Dean of Teaching, Augustana & Associate Professor of Biology

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Be strong, be brave, be true. David Gay EFS

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Courage. I hope you are surrounded by loving kindness in your journey and that you have the opportunity to gift loving kindness to others.

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Thank you for being YOU! I see you, and I respect you. Your story matters. I will do my best to generate a learning environment for my students at UofA who won't feel marginalized, isolated, or rejected because of who they are. I am inspired by your perseverance as all of the work you do requires courage. Be kind to yourself and know that you are enough.

Maricor Arlos, Assistant Professor, Environmental Engineering

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I suppose even the worst of humans know that the truth is that being alive is better for the great variety of flowers and wonderful infinite food recipes there are to sample in the world. The spectrum of genders is without a doubt an equal or more robust gift to our world! Please let us all feel that our hearts represent an inspiring individual beauty outward to the world of others and that it is as needed by others as great meals, as cherished as all the creatures in the sea and miraculous vibrant animals in the world! Variety is more than the spice of life! It is our very lives!! We add up to life on earth as it should be, enthused, excited, hopeful, respected and appreciated for being just as we each need to be. I’m thankful for everyone who gives such soul to our planet!!! Thank you!! Thank you!! Thank You!!! You are not alone!

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You are loved here.
You are supported here.
You are wanted here.
You are heard here.
You are wanted here.

Thank you for existing and being the way you are. It’s been a hard journey and it will be challenging but you made it so far.

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You are loved.
You are heard.
You are supported
You are accepted.

Thank you for existing and being true to yourself.

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You enrich our classrooms and our community - not just by your gender identity, but because of every part of you - your aptitudes and vulnerabilities, your personality and your interests. Thank you for being here!

- Tim Mills, Linguistics instructor

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I am so proud of you and all that you are! I want you to know that you are loved, you are seen, and you are powerful! Never let any doubt take your beauty and brilliance and I know that it is so hard, but I stand here with you! Our world needs your strength, courage, and voice! I am sending you so much love and prayers to honour who you truly are!
- Dr. Paulina Johnson, Assistant Professor in Sociology

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You deserve respect and acceptance.  I will work to educate myself and strive to provide these basic rights to all trans people. I am grateful that you are modelling living one's authentic self.

-- Allison Balcetis, Department of Music

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Thank you for being who you are, for living your truth on your own terms, and for adding so much to all of our lives; as friends, as family, as co-workers, as students, as community members. It can be hard to simply be each and every day, but know you are seen, and loved for the wonderful human beings that you are.

- Kelsey Stephenson, Assistant Lecturer, Art + Design

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You are a valuable part of our community!

Janet Wesselius, Professor of Philosophy, Augustana Campus

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The value that you add to our community, from a professional and personal perspective, is immeasurable. You belong. You enhance. You are us.

Renato Macciotta, Assistant Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering

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Chi hullo li. You are sacred (Chahta anumpa).

Misty Underwood

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You are amazing! Your authenticity and bravery are truly inspiring. You are my heroes! As a University professor, I want to make sure you know you have a safe, welcoming place in my class. You also have a place in my heart and I welcome anyone who just wants to have someone to talk to.

Dawn McCoy, Faculty of Business

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You are seen. You are heard. You matter

Blythe

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You are loved and valued!

Jeff Herzog, Assistant Lecturer, Department of Accounting and Business Analytics

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this day may bring up a lot of strong emotions for you, so remember two things:

1. those who have passed are not truly gone, so long as we remember & fight for them

2. some days it is enough to simply live. live, for those who can't, for those who will, and for yourself. be kind - you deserve it

may you be cherished, supported, and loved every day, especially today 🏳️‍⚧️

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You belong here

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You are valued! You are not alone! Be proud of yourself and never let anyone to destroy your self-confidence! Remember - the beauty of this world is in differences and diversity, and our goal should be to understand and celebrate our differences!

Dr. Marina Lazic

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Thinking about all the incredible trans youth I have had the pleasure of working alongside, who are fighting for their rights in schools, thriving in their communities, building GSA supports, and changing their community! I'm in awe of how badass you all are! <3
Lauren Alston
Principal Instructor, EDPY 304

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Now more than ever, in an institution that has built alienation, compartments, and isolation as its currency, we need faces, recognition, embrace, togetherness, difference! Each and all!

Piet Defraeye, Drama

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Thank you for making the world a more accepting place for those who are just finding their identities, or will come after you.  You shouldn't have to bear the burden of changing the world, but I am so thankful for your bravery, and will work alongside you to create a welcoming place for all.  You are important and integral to our community.

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You've always existed. The act of being your authentic self is viewed by some as brave. And it is. But when you are trying hard to just subsist, to exist, to resist the systemic cruelty of centuries, bravery is the last thing on your mind. Continue being. Your being is bravery. Your being is beauty. Your being is needed. I'll walk the path and live the life that will allow you just to be; for bravery shouldn't be a pre-requisite to simply exist. Be YOU. You are a transformative force to be reckoned with and don't forget it.

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Each person deserves to be seen for who they are and treated with dignity.  I am grateful for the trans people in my life and have rejoiced to see them transformed into their full selves as they transition(ed).  You belong here.  I want to be an ally.

Heather Coleman, Professor and Director of Graduate Studies, Department of History, Classics, and Religion

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"niya oma niya" (In Cree means, I am who I am) affirms self-acceptance, autonomy and self-determination.

Know you are powerful medicine that this world needs.

As a nehiyaw mother, grandmother, scholartist and matriarch, I am backing you up with love and acceptance.

Lana Whiskeyjack, Assistant professor, Women's and Gender Studies, Faculty of Arts

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Thank you so much for being here. You are important.

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You do you! We're here to support you, regardless of who you are.

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I am fortunate to have you in my classroom. You deserve everything we all take for granted- respect, love, recognition, safety, your voice being heard, freedom from hate.

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You will be respected in our classroom. I will do my best to create a safer and brave space for you to be exactly as you are. I will do the work to learn how best to do this.

Amanda Bergen, Sessional Instructor, Department of Drama