The following is a sample statement from the Queer Bodies: Gender, Disability and Illness (ANT381H5S) syllabi, taught by Zoë H.Wool:
Access, Disability, and Basic Needs:
This course is intended for all UofT students, including those of us who occupy social and structural positions that tend to negatively affect equal access to education. This includes those of us with mental, physical, or cognitive disabilities, illness, or impairments and those experiencing food, housing, or financial insecurity. I also note that the world is literally and figuratively on fire around us and this will take its toll on each of us in different ways. If, at any point in the term, you find yourself not able to fully access the space, content, and experience of this course, you are welcome (and not required) to contact me by email or during office hours to discuss your specific needs.
If you have a documented disability, illness, or impairment, we encourage you to contact Accessibility Services (Telephone: 905-569-4699 | Email: access.utm@utoronto.ca | https://www.utm.utoronto.ca/accessibility/welcome-accessibility-services). They can help you create an accommodation plan to ensure appropriate accommodations without disclosing your condition or diagnosis to course instructors. Please note that these services are only available to those who have documented conditions.
If you are experiencing food or housing insecurity, you may find the resources available through the University of Toronto Student Union helpful, including emergency bursaries and childcare funds (https://www.utsu.ca/ | hello@utsu.ca). If you are experiencing a temporary housing crisis, you can contact the UTM office of student housing at 905-828-5286.
If you need mental health support, the University of Toronto has created a centralized website with various resources: https://mentalhealth.utoronto.ca/
The UTM Health & Counselling Centre (HCC) offers services for students experiencing health and well-being concerns, including those related to COVID-19. Please call the HCC at 905-828-5255 to book an appointment.
If you are experiencing an acute mental health crisis, these 24/7 resources are available to you (additional resources are listed at mentalhealth.utoronto.ca):
- U of T My Student Support Program | 1-844-451-9700 (Outside of North America, call 001-416-380-6578) or download the app at the Apple store or Google Play
- Gerstine Crisis Center | (416) 929-5200
- Good2Talk Student Helpline (English, French, and Mandarin) |1-866-925-5454 | Text GOODTOTALKON to 686868 | Facebook messenger: https://m.me/CrisisTextLinepoweredbyKidsHelpPhone
Please note that most counselors and support workers have a duty to report, which means they may involve campus security, police, or child protective services if they believe you are at risk of harming yourself or others. If you are concerned about this but need support, remember that you do not need to provide your real name, address, or physical location in order to receive help.