A Statement from your Students’ Union Executive Committee: We Stand in Solidarity with the VIU Women’s Basketball Team.

We fully support the VIU Women’s Basketball Team and their decision to refrain from participating in this weekend’s games against Columbia Bible College (CBC) as they prioritize their safety and take a stand against the unacceptable behavior exhibited by the players and coaching staff at CBC. Read more about the team’s decision here.

The decision made by VIU’s team reflects a commitment to fostering an environment where all individuals feel secure, respected, and valued.

We are deeply saddened by the harmful actions displayed by individuals during the recent games between CBC and the VIU Mariners. You can read more info here. The transphobia that has taken place undermines the values of respect, inclusion, and community that we uphold at the Students’ Union and in the VIU community. The reports of mistreatment are heartbreaking; however, moments like these remind us of the power of allyship and unity within our campus community to rise above adversity and hate.

Since the transphobic attacks in the fall, we recognize that PACWEST has launched an ongoing investigation into these events, and we encourage a thorough and transparent process that ensures accountability and promotes a safe environment for all participants.

We invite the VIU Men’s Basketball Team to join in solidarity and reflect upon their commitment to allyship. True allyship begins with meaningful action, and by choosing to proceed with their game, they risk signalling that the unacceptable behaviours displayed by the coaches and players of the Women’s Team at CBC are tolerated. Standing together in this moment sends a powerful message that such actions will not be overlooked or condoned.

Your Students’ Union is steadfast in supporting the rights of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and is dedicated to creating a campus that is safe, welcoming, and inclusive for all. Everyone deserves the opportunity to participate in sports, education, and public life without fear of discrimination, exclusion or hate based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.

To the VIU Women’s Basketball Team: your courage and resilience inspires all of us.

We stand in solidarity, guided by our unwavering commitment to inclusion and the right to safety for all students.

With care,
Vancouver Island University Students’ Union Executive Committee