Controversial Student Events Protocol
Preamble
The University of Guelph is a learner-centred institution that is committed to the education and well-being of the whole person. We value collaboration and mutual respect, assert the fundamental equality of all and are committed to creating an environment that is hospitable, safe, supportive, equitable, pleasurable and, above all, intellectually challenging (adapted from the University of Guelph Mission Statement, 1995). The human dignity of individuals and groups is a cornerstone of the University’s Human Rights Policy. Likewise, the Policy on Non-Academic Misconduct states that it is expected that all members of the University community will interact with each other in a manner that is respectful, civil and consistent with these core values.
Civil discourse is fundamental to learning and an essential aspect of a university education. Topics deemed controversial, those that give rise or are likely to give rise to disagreement, are often introduced, debated, and analyzed in multiple settings during the course of one’s academic career. In such instances, we strive to strike a balance between the principles of free inquiry, our commitment to diversity and inclusion, and the protection of human rights.
When proposed student events are identified as controversial, it is essential that they be planned in accordance with University policies, with a particular emphasis on strategies that promote civil discourse and mitigate health and safety concerns. In situations where such due diligence has not occurred, these events must be reviewed against clearly defined criteria, and the result of that assessment communicated to event planners expeditiously. To that end, Student Affairs has established a protocol that is clear, fair, and balanced; informed by policies; and will be applied consistently.
1.0 Purpose & Jurisdiction
As stated in the Human Rights Policy, the University of Guelph is committed “to a campus free of discrimination and harassment and is dedicated to the highest standards of human equality.” The Protocol for Planning and Managing Controversial Events was established to provide a mechanism by which Student Affairs can make an assessment as to whether a student event could lead to an act of intolerance, a violation of human rights or present a significant risk to the health and safety of the campus community. The protocol outlines the processes for planning, reporting, assessment, appeals and record keeping, and is not intended to be used as a means of censorship or to limit dialogue on controversial issues.
1.1 This protocol applies to all students registered in a diploma, undergraduate or graduate program and all recognized student organizations and clubs at the University of Guelph, or otherwise taking credit or non-credit courses offered by the University of Guelph; or any person who was a student at the time the controversial event was proposed, planned or occurred.
1.2 This protocol applies to guests of individual students or recognized student organizations and clubs, and community members. Students must take reasonable steps to ensure their guests comply with the policies and protocols of the University of Guelph. Students may be held responsible for any breach of University policies and protocols committed by their on-campus guests.
1.3 This protocol applies to non-academic aspects of university life including activities and events organized by individual students, recognized student organizations and clubs and approved through Student Risk Management, Orientation Risk Management and those that are not sanctioned.
1.4 This protocol does not apply to students registered at University of Guelph-Humber or the Ridgetown campus. Controversial events will be subject to the processes and procedures specific to those campuses.
1.5 Based on the nature of the student event and the affiliation of the individuals involved, the relevant university policies and protocols will be enacted. For examples of related policies, see section 5.1.
2.0 Definition
A controversial event is one that gives rise to or has the potential to give rise to disagreement that without consideration may lead to an act of intolerance, a violation of human rights or present a significant risk to the health and safety of the campus community.
An act of intolerance is any action that fosters or expresses hate or prejudice towards an individual or group based on actual or perceived social identities, including those protected in the Ontario Human Rights Code:
- Age
- Ancestry, colour, race
- Citizenship
- Ethnic origin
- Place of origin
- Creed (religion)
- Disability
- Family status
- Marital status (including single status)
- Gender identity, gender expression
- Receipt of public assistance (in housing only)
- Record of offences (in employment only)
- Sex (including pregnancy and breastfeeding)
- Sexual orientation
Acts of intolerance can include criminal and otherwise illegal conduct and violations of university policies and protocols.
3.0 Implementation
3.1 Planning a controversial event
Individual students or student clubs and organizations planning an event that may be deemed controversial should contact the Leadership Education and Development (LEAD) Advisor in Student Experience for guidance during planning.
Planning needs to include strategies for mitigating the possibility of physical, social and emotional risks, acts of intolerance or a violation of human rights. As such, event planners must:
- Articulate the concrete steps that will be taken during the planning and throughout the event to ensure multiple viewpoints can be heard.
- Demonstrate that inclusive practices will be utilized on all promotional materials, including an appropriate framing of the event’s purpose, agenda and facilitation strategies.
- Identify the level of risk associated with the event and the precautions that will be taken to mitigate the risks.
- Follow the procedures outlined in the Student Risk Management Policy or, if the event occurs during Orientation Week, the Orientation Risk Management Guide.
The LEAD Advisor may suggest establishing an ad hoc advisory group to provide additional recommendations in support of civil discourse and health and safety.
3.2 On notification of a potential controversial event
Upon notification that an impending event may be deemed controversial and planners have not effectively mitigated the potential risks, the Director, Student Experience will make a preliminary judgement as to whether this protocol applies. In instances where it does apply, the Director, Student Experience will establish an ad hoc group with appropriate representation to assess and recommend actions in support of civil discourse and health and safety. Based on these recommendations, the Vice-Provost (Student Affairs) will make the final determination as to whether the concerns can be addressed and risks mitigated. The determination that an event should be cancelled will be made by the Vice-Provost (Student Affairs), Campus Community Police and Diversity and Human Rights, in consultation with the Provost and Vice President (Academic).
In instances where the protocol does not apply, the matter will be referred elsewhere, including follow-up with those who brought the concerns forward, as appropriate.
3.3 During a controversial event
Upon notification that a controversial event is underway, the Vice-Provost (Student Affairs) will make a judgement to whether this protocol applies. In instances where it does apply, the Vice-Provost (Student Affairs), Campus Community Police, and Diversity and Human Rights, in consultation with the Provost and Vice President (Academic), will take the appropriate steps to address the situation. If there are any immediate health and safety concerns, Campus Community Police will respond and take the appropriate steps.
In instances where the protocol does not apply, the matter will be referred elsewhere, including follow-up with those who brought the concerns forward, as appropriate.
3.4 After a controversial event
Upon notification that a controversial event has occurred, the Vice-Provost (Student Affairs) will make a judgement as to whether this protocol applies. In instances where it does apply, an investigation will be undertaken by the Office of Student Affairs. The Vice-Provost (Student Affairs) will make the final determination as to which adjudicating body has jurisdiction.
In instances where the protocol does not apply, the matter will be referred elsewhere, including follow-up with those who brought the concerns forward, as appropriate.
3.5 Appeals
Students have the right to appeal a decision of the adjudicating body handling the investigation according to that body’s appeal process.
3.6 Record Keeping
The University maintains records in compliance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA) and as stipulated by the University’s Record Retention and Disposition Policy. See the University’s statement on Protection of Privacy and Access to Information.
4.0 Reporting
4.1. Planning a controversial event
For guidance in planning a controversial event, contact the Leadership Education and Development (LEAD) Advisor.
4.2 Prior to a controversial event
If you have reason to believe that a controversial event will take place, contact the Director, Student Experience.
4.3 During a controversial event:
Contact Campus Community Police at 519-824-4120 extension 52000 or 519-840-5000
4.4. After a controversial event:
Contact Campus Community Police at 519-824-4120 extension 52245 or submit a report form at www.uoguelph.ca/police/crime-report-form. In the case of an alleged human rights violation, contact Diversity and Human Rights at 519-824-4120 extension 5300 or dhrinfo@uoguelph.ca/
5.0 Resources
Affiliated University Policies, Codes, Standards and Protocols include the following:
Policy on Non-Academic Misconduct
Student Risk Management Policies and Procedures
Residence Community Living Standards
Department of Athletics Code of Conduct
Approving Authority: Vice-Provost (Student Affairs)
Responsible Office: Student Affairs
Established: August 2018