November 21, 2014
To members of the McGill community,
In all areas of Canadian society sexual harassment and sexual assault are realities that must be confronted and addressed. As a university community, we are already part of this conversation and we must actively continue to participate in the process of change.
McGill has a policy on Harassment, Sexual Harassment and Discrimination in place, and, through the leadership of several student organizations, the McGill community is working together in the process of establishing a specific policy on sexual assault.
Our approach is consistent with our firm belief in due process, something we must bear in mind when dealing with these difficult issues.
McGill has procedures for the filing of complaints. There are as well external recourses available.
In addition, our community has a number of resources to support and accompany survivors who have been affected by sexual violence.
Among the recent steps developed in collaboration with students, faculty and staff to promote dialogue on campus is the #ConsentMcGill campaign, an education campaign intended to increase campus understanding of consent, as it applies to sexual activity.
Together, as a community, we are making progress on these matters, in establishing a broader acceptance and understanding of the need for consent in human relationships, and in continuing to make our campuses safe spaces for all.
Sincerely,
Prof. Suzanne Fortier, Principal and Vice-Chancellor
Ron Critchley, President, McGill University Non-Academic Staff Association
Anna Gorkova, President, McGill Association of Continuing Education Students
Prof. R. Bruce Lennox, President, McGill Association of University Teachers
Juan Camilo Pinto, Secretary-General, Post-Graduate Students’ Society
Kevin Whittaker, President, McGill University Non-Academic Certified Association