This notice is from the archives of The Notice Board. Information contained in this notice was accurate at the time of publication but may no longer be so.
The University is seeking input from members of the university community regarding a draft stand-alone sexual violence policy.
Currently, the U of L has multiple policies in place that pertain to sexual violence (Harassment and Discrimination Policy, Workplace Violence Policy, and the Non-Academic Offence provision in the academic calendar). This new policy aims to better identify resources and supports available to the University community, promote an ‘only with consent’ campus culture, and demonstrate the U of L’s commitment to addressing the issue of sexual violence on campus.
In addition to face-to-face consultations with key stakeholders, students, faculty and staff are encouraged to provide their feedback through an online submission process.
Associate Vice-President (Students) Dr. Judith Lapadat says that in order to bring clarity to this important issue, the creation of a stand-alone policy regarding sexual violence has been a goal of many universities across Canada.
“A stand-alone policy is important in that it brings together critical information sought by survivors of sexual assault, and those supporting survivors,” says Lapadat. “Incidents of sexual violence impact survivors emotionally and physically, and for those seeking supports after an incident, information must be clear, accurate and accessible.”
Contained within the policy are directives to enhance and expand awareness and education; a commitment to promote awareness of principles related to consent and provide accessible information on available resources and supports; a description of formal reporting options; recognition of the importance of confidentiality; and the continued commitment to maintain and publish sexual violence statistics. The policy itself will be supplemented by a university webpage dedicated to sexual violence information and resources.
Lapadat says that while the stand-alone policy is a huge step forward for the U of L, input will continue to be sought in the coming year.
“The policy will undergo a review next spring. We realize this is a complex issue and we want to get it right. A review in Spring 2017 will allow us to have further conversations with campus stakeholders, monitor best practices at other institutions, and evaluate the effectiveness of this policy,” says Lapadat.
The U of L’s draft Sexual Violence Policy can be viewed at http://www.uleth.ca/policy/. The policy is scheduled to go before the U of L's Board of Directors for approval on Thursday, April 21, 2016. Feedback on the policy will continue to be accepted through Spring 2017.
FAQ
Q. Why is the University of Lethbridge creating a sexual violence policy now? Did we not have one before?
The U of L has other policies in place that pertain to sexual violence such as the Harassment and Discrimination Policy, Workplace Violence Policy, and the Non-Academic Offence provision in the academic calendar. This policy complements these other policies. The U of L believes sexual violence is a unique area that requires its own set of principles and policy statements.
Q. The policy states this stand-alone policy complements existing policies that currently deal with sexual violence. Where can I see them?
All of the University’s policies are published online http://www.uleth.ca/policy/browse.
The Academic calendar can be found at https://www.uleth.ca/ross/academic-calendar/2016-17.
Q. What is the University doing to clearly outline how to report an incident of sexual violence?
The Sexual Violence Policy makes clear that the U of L recognizes that survivors have the right to choose whether to make a formal report. Information about reporting options is set out in the policy, and Campus Security can be contacted for additional information and understanding of these options.
Detailed information about available resources and supports will be provided on a University webpage dedicated to sexual violence education and awareness. This website is under development and is scheduled to be launched at the same time this policy is approved.
Q. Is this policy meant for students only?
No. This policy applies to all members of the University community.
Q. When will this policy be reviewed?
The first review of this policy will occur in Spring 2017. Following an initial review, the policy will be reviewed every five years. These reviews will include consultation with the University community.
Contact:
Sheena Olson | sheena.olson@uleth.ca | 403-329-2482