TW: Loss of Life, Natural Disaster, Human Displacement
On Monday 6th February 2023, a catastrophic 7.8 and 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck southern Türkiye, and northern Syria. Officials have said this is the worst natural disaster to hit the region in over a century. With widespread damage across the region, the death toll has surpassed 40,000 as of Monday.
On Monday 20th February, Hatay province in Turkey was shaken by another 6.3 magnitude earthquake, just two weeks after powerful earthquakes and a string of intense aftershocks completely destroyed the area.
Carleton University Student Association (CUSA) stands in solidarity with the people of Türkiye and Syria both at home and abroad. According to the United Nations Children Fund, millions of children are in need of urgent humanitarian support, and dozens of aid groups urgently call for an increase of international support. At least a million people have been displaced, with many survivors currently living in tents in sub-zero temperatures. CUSA will be advocating for financial relief, as well as additional support for those who have been impacted. The Carleton community stands in solidarity with our Turkish and Syrian students, the brave rescue and relief workers, and all those affected by this catastrophic disaster.
CUSA wholeheartedly commits and reaffirms supporting those in times of crisis. CUSA supports student groups and clubs in their efforts to support their peers in this time of need. CUSA will work with the ISSO (International Student Services Office) and the university administration to immediately support students with immediate assistance including financial assistance through the academic resilience fund and other such programs.