DSU Iranian Student Solidarity Statement

DSU Iranian Student Solidarity Statement

The Dalhousie Iranian Student Society (DISS) has formally communicated concerns regarding the impact of the ongoing crisis in Iran on Iranian students at Dalhousie University to the DSU. On January 25, the DSU council voted to stand publicly in support of Iranian students, informed by the delegations from the Dalhousie Iranian Student Society.

We recognize the immense emotional, academic, financial and personal toll this crisis places on Iranian students, particularly those studying abroad who are worried for loved ones while navigating uncertainty and awaiting news from home. As students are frequently uniquely vulnerable to moments of crisis, we are particularly concerned about the impact this will have on Iranian students.

With internet shutdowns inside the country disrupting communication and increasing emotional distress among Iranian students, and with financial instability in Iran impairing families’ capacity to provide financial support, the DSU is concerned about Iranian students’ ability to meet academic and tuition deadlines. The DSU and DISS are advocating to Dalhousie University to provide academic and financial flexibility and accommodations in light of this crisis

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Resources

In light of the ongoing crisis in Iran and its impact on students here at Dalhousie, we want to share a list of supports and resources that may be helpful if you’re experiencing stress, emotional difficulties, academic challenges, financial concern, or barriers to communication or documentation.

Mental Health and Emotional Support

• Dalhousie Student Health & Wellness:  
  Counselling, wellness supports, same-day appointments, and referrals. You can find more information and book an appointment here: https://www.dal.ca/campus_life/health-and-wellness.html

• Mental health services overview: 
  https://www.dal.ca/campus_life/health-and-wellness/my-health/mental-health.html

• Same-day counselling appointments: 
  https://www.dal.ca/campus_life/health-and-wellness/my-health/mental-health/same-day-counselling.html

• Peer Support Services: 
  Free, confidential peer-to-peer support on campus: https://www.dal.ca/campus_life/health-and-wellness/my-health/peer-support.html

• 24/7 Crisis Lines (Nova Scotia): If you’re in urgent distress or need someone to talk to right now:

• Nova Scotia Mental Health & Addictions Crisis Line: 
  902-429-8167 or toll-free 1-888-429-8167 (available 24/7)

• Good2Talk Nova Scotia (for post-secondary students): 
  Call 1-833-292-3698 text GOOD2TALKNS to 686868

Academic Advising and Flexibility

• Academic Advising & Student Success Centre:  Advising for course planning, deadlines, petitions, and academic challenges: https://www.dal.ca/campus_life/academic-support/advising.html

• Halifax and Bissett Student Success Centre:
  contact: https://www.dal.ca/campus_life/academic-support/advising/contact-us.html

  Advisors can help discuss extensions, deferrals, and academic planning during difficult times. 

Financial and Tuition-related Supports

We know financial strain can be very real when international money transfers are disrupted or costs increase unexpectedly.

• International Student Emergency Bursary - DSU :
  Emergency financial assistance available for international students experiencing unforeseen financial hardships, designed to help students continue their studies.
  The bursary is reviewed case-by-case and intended to support students showing genuine need due to exceptional circumstances beyond their control.

  https://www.dsu.ca/international-student-emergency-bursary?utm_source=chatgpt.com

• Student Accounts & Financial Services:
  Phone: 902-494-3998
  Email: student.accounts@dal.ca
  Office: Henry Hicks Building, Room 29, Halifax (for detailed questions about fees, payment options, payment deadlines, and receipts)

  The Student Accounts &Financial Services can be contacted to discuss tuition payment plans or options for meeting financial obligations.

• Awards & Financial Aid Office (Dalhousie):
  Dalhousie’s university bursary program may also offer support for students in financial need through the regular bursary application process:

  https://www.dal.ca/admissions/money_matters/awards-financial-aid/bursaries.html

Support with Immigration, Documentation, and Deadlines:

Students facing issues with visas, documentation, or communication disruptions should reach out to:

• International Centre: Advises on immigration, study permit concerns, documentation delays, and may be able to support advocacy internally. Visit: https://www.dal.ca/campus_life/international-centre.html 

Community and Peer Support:

• Iranian Student Society: A peer community where students can share experiences and support one another.
  Follow them on Instagram for more updates: https://www.instagram.com/diss_dal/

• For students in Truro, the Student Success Centre has staff available: intdalac@dal.ca