Lakehead University’s statement on racism and oppression

Lakehead University stands in solidarity with members of a global movement to denounce racism in all of its forms, against Indigenous, Black, or any other racialized group. As a Canadian post-secondary institution located on the traditional lands of Indigenous peoples, and with a University community comprised of people from nations around the world, racist and colonialist attitudes are not accepted by our University community.

Lakehead University is steadfast in its commitment to the principles set out in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Ontario Human Rights Code — that the inherent dignity, and the equal and inalienable rights, of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world.  

We have developed a comprehensive approach to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI). Lakehead’s Board of Governors has enshrined the principles of EDI in its Strategic Plan (2018-2023) under the pillar of Social Responsibility. Lakehead’s Senate has also supported EDI within its Academic and Research priorities.

Through the implementation of the University’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Action Plan, Accessing Excellence Together, we are ensuring that EDI principles are incorporated into our student and employee recruitment and retention efforts, our teaching and research, and our governance systems.

We have established values so that who we are and what we do nurtures our and society’s ongoing efforts to be global citizens and communities. We are committed to ensuring that Lakehead University is a welcoming and safe place for all peoples, and that racist or oppressive expressions are not accepted here.

If you need support regarding a human rights matter, please contact Lakehead University’s Office of Human Rights and Equity.

Dr. Moira McPherson
President and Vice-Chancellor
Lakehead University

Dylan Mazur
Director, Office of Human Rights and Equity
Lakehead University