Whether you have chosen to live in residence or off campus, immersing yourself into a new world away from home can be very challenging, it can feel lonely or even scary. Especially when we are trying to get back to a “new normal.” Acadia University recognizes this stressful time, and we have designated offices and support staff, along with student-focused initiatives to meet your needs as well as ensure your safety and well-being.

One such support that Acadia provides is the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Office. EDI Officer, Polly Leonard’s primary role is to ensure a safe space to report incidences of discrimination, sexual harassment, and personal harassment on campus. As a member of the University community, you have the right to learn and work in an environment free from discrimination, sexual harassment, and personal harassment and this is why the Equity Officer will take reasonable steps in protecting your safety. This is done in accordance with Acadia University’s Policy Against Harassment and Discrimination. If you feel harassed or discriminated against based on (but not limited to) your race, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression by any member or visitor to the Acadia community, the Equity Office is here to support you. You can choose to either file a complaint or have an informal meeting with Polly. Depending on what you decide, your complaint may be investigated and resolved by informal resolution, mediation, or formal processes.

The Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer also works closely with the Sexualized Violence Response and Education Coordinator (SVREC), Allison Smith to create and promote programs that raise campus awareness on the nature of and problems associated with sexual harassment. They work together to destigmatize conversations around sexuality and promote safer engagement and anti-oppressive approaches.

You can contact the EDI Office at equity@acadiau.ca and the SVREC at svrec@acadiau.ca.

Even if you are not sure who to contact for a specific situation, simply reach out to any of those contacts and you will be directed to the right office. Your mental, emotional, and physical well-being is very important and so you will not be left waiting.

Some other student-focused resources on campus include:

• The ASU Food Cupboard is an initiative founded to give Acadia University students access to emergency food/grocery services. Whether you live on or off campus, the Food Cupboard is free, accessible to you and located on the second floor of the Students’ Union Building (SUB).
• The Sexual Health Resource Center (SHRC) is an organization that provides sexual/reproductive health resources, referrals and products. Here you can find books, sex toys, diva cups, pads and tampons or general advice on sexual health without being judged.
• The Counselling Centre offers free and confidential services to all students. They use a Stepped Care 2.0 model of service delivery that strives to offer a 30-minute first appointment within 24 hours to create a plan based on your concerns and needs. Plans may include individual or group counselling, e-mental health options, and/or peer support.
• The Wong International Centre is a place to go to have your questions answered. Whether you need advice on applying for your income taxes or just need some help adapting to a new country—our Student Advisor and other staff members are here to provide you with the support you may need.
• Accessible Learning Services at Acadia University are committed to providing a supportive, inclusive, and welcoming on-campus environment. Their main goal is to facilitate access to supports and resources for students with disabilities that will maximize opportunities for a successful and meaningful experience at Acadia University.No matter what, always remember that there is a community of staff and students who are eager to listen and help you through any difficult times. The past year and a half did not leave our lives unaltered, and it is important that you cope in healthy ways!

Once again, welcome to new students and welcome back to continuing students. The EDI Office is here for you!

by Fikayo Kayode
Fourth Year Student, Department of Political Science
EDI Summer Student Intern 2021
Acadia University