The Laurentian University Board of Governors has approved a student-focused policy that addresses prevention and response to sexual violence.
“We are pleased that the Board of Governors has endorsed this policy, created in consultation with Laurentian students,” said Noël Badiou, assistant vice-president of equity, diversity and human rights, in a press release.
“This new policy is the culmination of more than two years of work by many parties at the university. It will help increase awareness of the process for responding to and addressing incidents of sexual violence and will ensure that the Laurentian community is aware of the supports and resources available.”
In accordance with Bill 132, the province’s new Sexual Violence and Harassment Action Plan Act, the university said its Sexual Assault Response and Prevention Working Group consulted with students and student-group representatives to develop the framework for the policy, and gathered feedback once the draft was complete.
In addition to consulting with students, the working group also sought input from experts in the field, Laurentian said in a news release, to ensure a wide perspective was considered in developing the appropriate supports, services and accommodation relating to sexual violence involving students.
“I am extremely thankful to everyone involved for their commitment and dedication to this most important endeavour,” said Badiou. “Laurentian is committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive, safe and healthy environment for all of our community members, and each of us plays a role in fostering this goal.”
The University’s Equity, Diversity & Human Rights Office (EDHRO) offers workshops with Residence Advisors and Peer Mentors on the importance of inclusion and the prevention of Sexual Violence. A similar introductory presentation is offered to new students. Awareness campaigns and educational programs have also been implemented for the entire Laurentian community.
The Policy on Response and Prevention of Sexual Violence is one of four Laurentian policies that support learning and working places free from discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, bullying, violence and sexual violence. Other policies are the university's student code of conduct, non-academic, its policy on a respectful workplace and learning environment, and the school's policy on workplace violence prevention.
