York University has recently decided to hang a Russian Federation flag in one of their student centres. Just above it hangs the Ukrainian flag, the country that is being targeted by the russian state in a horrific war. A war that has displaced millions and killed thousands. Russia is a terrorist state that is committing unimaginable human rights violations and atrocities. The constant bombings of critical infrastructure has resulted in many ukrainians living without water, electricity and heat for hours and in many cases days at a time. 

The Canadian government has recognized the russian invasion of Ukraine as a genocide. As the russian federation seeks to strip Ukraine of its culture, land, and people. In addition, the United Nations have condemned russia for violating multiple international laws. Including Article 2(4) which states that all nations must refrain from the “use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state.”

A student who initially noticed the flag hanging at York, immediately went to speak up about the matter. However she was told that this is a personal issue and there is no clear human rights violation and instead she should seek mental health counselling. This is completely unacceptable! This is certainly not a personal matter, as millions of ukrainians have been deeply affected by the war russia is waging. In fact, human rights violations that are being committed (such as; sexual violance, extrajudicial killings and torture of ukrainians) has led the European Parlimant to label russia as a Terroist State. 

Multiple students came forward with their personal experiences in how the war has traumatized them and their families. In addition, to how the flag is triggering as it is an incredibly difficult reminder of war and suffering. York University has chosen to ignore the complaints made by their students and not take the flag down.

Silence in the face of injustice is the equivalent of supporting the oppressor. If York refuses to listen to their students, then we ask for help. The russian flag is a symbol of genocide, imperialism and oppression and therefore should have no place in any institution. By signing this petition, we are collectively telling York University that their actions and response is completely unacceptable. We want york to demonstrate their allyship and support for the Ukrainian community. If enough pressure is put on the institution they will have no choice but to remove the flag and acknowledge their mishandling of the situation. 

Sincerely,

Students of York University