Ryerson is a commuter campus with students coming to study from all over. It is a great first step that Ryerson has mandated vaccinations for all students on residence, but it is not enough to protect the health and safety of students eager to return to campus learning.

To avoid a fourth wave and to ensure student safety on campus with minimized outbreaks, vaccinations should be mandatory in order to enroll for in-person learning at Ryerson. 

We know from countless studies and evidence given to us by leaders in our health and safety fields, that COVID-19 is most dangerous and transmissible in large group settings and congregations, more so inside where there is a lack of fresh air and circulation. Along with the rise of the Delta Variant, which is affecting even highly vaccinated areas, campuses like ours are extremely vulnerable to outbreaks. 

The solution is simple- fully vaccinated students reduce the risk of spread and infection on campus, and is the only plan that wholly protects the health and safety of all students and faculty on campus. We urge Ryerson to mandate proof of two doses of a Health Canada approved vaccine in order to study in person. This strategy protects all Ryerson students, as well as the vulnerable population that are exempted for health requirements. We know Ryerson cares about it's students experience and safety on campus, and we ask that you show us once more that students safety is your top priority. 

Let's get ahead of this, and let's make Ryerson a safe and healthy environment for students this fall.