Statement of Solidarity with Ukraine

At the Temerty Faculty of Medicine, our work is advancing new knowledge, better health and equity. We are part of an interconnected community of medical faculties worldwide whose core mission is to treat the sick, alleviate suffering, and improve quality of life for all. For these reasons, we find it particularly tragic to witness the vicious and wanton attack on humanity in Ukraine by Russian military forces.

Temerty Medicine wishes to express its solidarity with the people of Ukraine as they defend their liberty, culture and values against these forces. As scientists, physicians, trainees and educators, we stand with President Gertler and our University of Toronto community in working toward peaceful solutions where and when conflicts arise. Many of our colleagues are supporting humanitarian efforts on the ground in Ukraine as we continue to promote global human health and wellbeing.

We stand with all those in our Toronto communities, including those within our Russian community, who condemn violence as a means of advancing self-interests. We hope for a swift resolution of the conflict and a return to a social order that is respectful of the fundamental human rights inherent to all. 

For anyone in Temerty Medicine community who may need support in light of these traumatic and tragic events, I urge you to reach out to our wellness resources for students, faculty and staff.

Sincerely,

Patricia Houston
Acting Dean, Temerty Faculty of Medicine