Dear UPEI Community Members,

I hope this message finds you well.

I am writing to you to share my concerns regarding the absence of visible support from the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) for those within our community who have been affected by the recent tragic and genocidal events in Gaza and the West Bank.

To date, we have gathered over 200 signatures in support of our cause through word of mouth alone, and we plan to amplify our efforts by sharing a petition on social media to secure at least 600 additional signatures from UPEI students, alumni, faculty and staff. The collective strength of our voices is a testament to the unity and support that exists within our community.

Enclosed with this email, you will find the letter that I will be sending to the President of UPEI. I kindly request that you refrain from sharing this letter with anyone outside of this email group. Our objective is to maintain a unified and coordinated approach to address our concerns.

The letter is as follows:

" Subject:  Urgent Appeal for Assistance for Members of UPEI Community Impacted by the Events in Gaza

Dear President Keefe,

I hope this message finds you well. 

As concerned members of the University of Prince Edward Island community, we write to express our collective concern and to urge our university to provide support for those affected by the recent events in Gaza.

We vividly recall your swift response in February 2022, condemning Russia's attack on Ukraine and showing solidarity with the Ukrainian community. Your action was commendable and set a precedent for our university's response to global crises.

However, we couldn't help but notice the absence of a similar message of support regarding the ongoing situation in Palestine. The reported ethnic cleansing, bombardment of hospitals and schools, and the massacre of thousands of innocent civilians, predominantly women and children, at the hands of the Israeli government in Gaza is deeply affecting many within our university community and beyond.

While we commend the university for providing resources for students and UPEI Faculty and staff in response to the Ukraine-Russia conflict, we are deeply concerned about the lack of similar support extended for those affected by the ongoing oppression and genocide in Gaza. For instance, the recent Israeli attacks have personally affected my family, resulting in the loss of over 20 members.

This variation in response to different crises raises concerns about fairness and sensitivity towards all students, staff, and faculty members facing such a traumatic situation. We believe that extending support similar to that provided in your February 2022 statement, for those affected by what experts have been describing as a potential genocide in Gaza would reflect UPEI’s commitment to inclusivity, empathy, and solidarity with the oppressed victims of this horrible war waged on innocent civilians.

The severity of the situation in Gaza, with more lives lost in the last nine weeks, with no end in sight, than in any other ongoing global conflict this century cannot be overstated. In the spirit of fostering an inclusive and compassionate university community, we kindly request your consideration in extending support and the necessary resources, including mental health resources and counseling, for those affected by the Israeli war on Palestine. As the president of UPEI, a statement from you condemning the Israeli attacks on civilians and expressing support for the Palestinian victims and their families would provide solace and assurance to the Palestinian and Arab community during these challenging times.

Lastly, I request a meeting with you to discuss the matters mentioned above at your earliest convenience. I can be reached by email at Iayounis@upei.ca and by phone at (902) 000-XXXX.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.

 Sincerely,

Concerned UPEI Community Members" 

I appreciate the backing and solidarity that each of you has shown thus far. Together, we can make a meaningful impact and bring attention to the importance of supporting our community members during these challenging times. Please feel free to tell your peers in the UPEI community about this letter. 

Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,

Concerned UPEI Community Members