The University of Regina (U of R) says it is committed to ensuring a safe environment on its campus – as an investigation into a disruption at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the U of R Women’s Centre continues.
Addressing the AGM and investigation, U of R President and Vice Chancellor Jeff Keshen posted a message on the university’s Facebook page.
“Our top priority is to ensure that no students are ever made to feel intimidated or threatened at the University of Regina,” the message said.
In a statement to CTV News, the U of R said it encourages anyone who has concerns about their safety on campus to bring them forward through the proper channels.
“Such as their supervisor, their instructor or faculty office, housing services, respectful university services and/or protective services,” the statement read.
The university added that it is committed to ensuring a safe and inclusive, harassment-free community and zero tolerance for intimidation, racism, misogyny, or violent behavior.
Following the abruptly cancelled Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the U of R’s Women’s Centre, and now a pending investigation – the treatment of women within the institution is now being talked about far from campus.
Local advocacy group RaiseHer Co. shared alleged experiences from past and present members of the university’s community through several anonymous accounts.
“Now that we are sharing more, we are getting more messages from folks saying, ‘I worked there 15 years ago and this is still going on,‘” explained Talitha McCloskey, Co-Founder of RaiseHer Co.
McCloskey said many people are paying attention to what’s happening on campus – adding that the issues impact everyone.
“The silent majority is very loud right now when things are not being addressed and women are still walking around feeling unsafe at their school,” she said. “I think being active and being involved and staying as informed as possible is important.”
President and Vice Chancellor Keshen has said the outcomes and follow up actions of the review will be shared – and the university will also be reviewing its own procedures as well.
