We are closely monitoring internet activity and social media and do not have knowledge of any specific safety threat at York. Nonetheless, some community members have expressed concern for their safety in an environment where overtly hateful statements and acts are being directed at Jews globally, and where we are seeing increased evidence of both antisemitism and islamophobia in public discourse.  In an effort to reassure community members and visitors that our campuses are respectful, inclusive and safe spaces, we want to update you on steps the University’s Community Safety team has proactively taken to strengthen safety and security measures at this time, including:

•            Increased campus safety patrols in priority areas

•            Additional security for high profile events occurring on York’s campuses and at Convocation ceremonies

•            Enhanced CCTV with assigned monitors as needed, including increased reviews of high traffic areas and residences

•            Ongoing dialogue with Toronto Police Service for support if needed

•            Residence life will have security watch officials nightly

•            goSAFE staff will continue to perform regular checks and are available at any time to accompany community members with safety concerns

•            We also have a Safety App that we encourage our community to use.

•            Classroom locations for courses are behind Passport York

•            An Incident Response Plan has been developed to preserve safety in the face of any unexpected events on campus