AMS services available to those that feel targeted or threatened.
On June 23, Jenn Smith is scheduled to speak on the UBC-Vancouver campus at a private event. In the past, Smith has made remarks that could be regarded as transphobic and anti-SOGI 123 (inclusive sexual orientation and gender identity curricula in schools). Due to the content of his talk, as well as unrest and violence his presence can incite, Smith has had talks cancelled at two BC universities over the past two weeks. The AMS is concerned that Smith’s talk will stoke intolerance and discrimination based on gender identity, sexual orientation, race, or an intersection of the three. We fear that some students, faculty, and staff at UBC will feel threatened, unsafe, and targeted by his messaging.
The AMS is accorded the responsibility “To promote unity and goodwill amongst its members” in its constitution. Therefore, the AMS denounces all forms of violence and marginalization on campus. We understand that there may be peaceful protests arranged to both demonstrate against Smith’s message and stand in solidarity with members of the UBC community affected by this talk. The AMS supports the right by any to peacefully demonstrate against intolerance and discrimination.
For any individual who made feel unsafe or targeted by Smith or those inspired by his remarks, the AMS has services available to assist and support individuals on this campus.
