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Statement on the terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka

The University of Toronto community shares in the shock and sadness felt around the world in response to the terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka yesterday.

These despicable atrocities were orchestrated on Easter Sunday, the holiest day in the Christian calendar, in a country with a long history of religious pluralism and a culture that is welcoming to foreigners. Like all such attacks, they were meant to divide and weaken. We join the Sri Lankan community at U of T and in the Toronto region in hoping that Sri Lanka will only grow in unity and strength as a result.

On behalf of the University, I extend our deepest condolences to those whose loved ones were killed or injured, and to the people of Sri Lanka. I offer our full support to members of our community who are grieving or worried about family and friends. I also encourage all those who are in need of assistance in the wake of this terrible news to access the chaplaincy and health and wellness services available on our campuses.

Meric S. Gertler
President, University of Toronto

St. George, Health and Wellness Centre
UTSC, Health and Wellness Centre
UTM, Health & Counselling Centre
St. George, Campus Chaplains Association
UTSC, Campus Chaplains Association
UTM, Student Engagement Centre, Interfaith
Employee and Family Assistance Program