The Royal Conservatory of Music has been deeply shaken by the recent allegations that Boris Berlin sexually abused Lusiana Lukman in the 1980s. We have also been made aware that others may be stepping forward to share similar accounts.
These accounts are devastating. They have caused pain, anger, and grief across our community. We hear the voices of students, parents, alumni, faculty, staff, donors, and community members calling on the RCM to respond with seriousness, transparency, and care.
We want to say clearly: we are listening, and we are taking this matter seriously.
Our Commitment to Understanding the Truth
As soon as Lusiana Lukman’s account became public, the RCM began an internal review of available records and historical information. Because these allegations date back approximately 40 years, to a period when the RCM was part of the University of Toronto, this work is complex and has taken time.
Our responsibility is to understand, as fully and truthfully as possible, the available historical record, the institutional context, and the lessons that must be drawn today. We are continuing to gather information, and we remain open to all appropriate next steps, including an independent, third-party external investigation.
We recognize that many members of our community are calling for an independent, third-party process to provide greater confidence in the outcome. We understand that view and are taking it seriously. We are actively assessing the appropriate scope, structure, and mandate of such a process so that any next step is credible, trauma-informed, independent, and capable of producing meaningful answers.
We also know there are many in our community who want immediate answers. We understand that. We also believe that those who have come forward, and all those affected, deserve more than a rushed statement or an incomplete response. They deserve a process that is serious, respectful, and capable of getting as close to the truth as possible.
Student Safety Today
The safety and wellbeing of students is our highest responsibility.
The RCM has comprehensive, zero-tolerance policies and procedures addressing harassment, abuse, misconduct, reporting, and student safety, which we actively review with an openness to continuing to strengthen them wherever possible.
But policies alone are not enough. We must also ensure that students, families, faculty, staff, and community members feel safe coming forward, know where to turn, and trust that concerns will be heard and acted upon.
Going forward, we will continue reviewing our current practices and listening to the concerns and recommendations of our community. Where we can do better, we will.
Our Responsibility Now
We know that many are frustrated by what may have felt like silence. We understand why.
Please know that the RCM is not indifferent, and we are not standing still. We are engaged in the difficult work of reviewing the past, listening to those who are speaking now, and determining the most responsible path forward. That path may include an independent, third-party investigation, an option we are actively considering.
The heart of this institution is music education and the relationship of trust between teachers, students, families, and the broader community. When that trust is harmed, whether in the present or the past, we have a responsibility to respond with humility, care, and resolve.