August 1 is Emancipation Day. In 2021, the House of Commons voted unanimously to mark the day that the Slavery Abolition Act came into place in 1834 across the British Empire. 

Emancipation Day reminds us that Canadian history includes the enslavement of Black and Indigenous people, and to celebrate and continue the work of activists who organize(d) against it and anti-Black racism in all its forms. 

June 18th is the UN’s International Day for Countering Hate Speech.   

Durham College recognizes the impact hate speech has on our community and encourages staff and students to familiarize themselves with campus policies as well as to utilize resources in place to help report and prevent hate speech.  Hate speech can be reported in a multitude of ways; outside of reporting to the OEDI, we recommend Durham Region’s Community Based Hate Reporting Program, as well as the Victim Services of Durham reporting tool.  

Asian Canadian communities have played a vital role in shaping Canada’s cultural, social, and economic landscape. Their contributions span the arts, sciences, education, entrepreneurship, social justice, and public life, and continue to strengthen communities across the country. 

Asian Heritage Month also provides an opportunity to reflect on historical and ongoing inequities Asian Canadians face, while fostering respectful learning, dialogue, and intercultural understanding throughout our campus. 

Throughout the month, students and employees are encouraged to engage with campus and community resources that support inclusion, learning, and safety. These include student–led Asian clubs listed through the DCSA, Durham College’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention and Response Policy and Wearing of a Kirpan Policy as well as the Victim Services of Durham Region Hate Reporting Program. Educational resources are also available through Canada.ca which highlights significant events in the history of Asian communities in Canada. 

May is Sexual Violence Prevention Month. 

Sexual violence impacts people of all genders, identities, and backgrounds, and its effects can be profound and long-lasting. Durham College’s Sexual Violence Policy outlines the College’s approach to prevention, response, and survivor-centered support, and reflects its firm commitment to education, accountability, care, and respect across our campus. 

Sexual violence is preventable, and meaningful change is possible when we act together with compassion and intention. Durham College is dedicated to fostering an environment where everyone feels safe, supported, and respected. 

Support and resources are available to any member of the Durham College community regardless of gender, identity, or background, and may be sought at any stage and in ways that feel right for anyone who has been impacted by sexual violence, whether directly or indirectly. The Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (OEDI) Sexual Violence Support page is a helpful educational resource rooted in dignity, respect, and care. In addition to on‑campus supports, individuals may also access community‑based resources, including local organizations listed on the OEDI’s Community Resources page, as well as broader supports like the Ending Sexual Violence Association of Canada. Help is available—no one has to navigate this alone. 

Everyone deserves to be safe from violence.