Algonquin College adopts new policy on free speech

Posted on Monday, December 17th, 2018

(OTTAWA, Dec. 17, 2018) – Algonquin College will be posting a new policy on free speech that has been endorsed by all of Ontario’s 24 colleges.

“The freedom to share ideas is an integral part of post-secondary education,” said Cheryl Jensen, Algonquin College’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “At Algonquin, we will continue to encourage open, respectful discussion and a diversity of views. As a community, we must strike a healthy balance – by recognizing each other’s freedom to expression and freedom to disagree.”

The new free speech policy was developed by a task force of senior college leaders in collaboration with the College Student Alliance, legal experts and others. It was approved at a recent meeting of Ontario’s college presidents and is to be posted at every college by Jan. 1.

The policy statement is primarily based on the University of Chicago’s Statement on Principles of Free Expression and has five core elements:

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  • A definition of freedom of speech.
  • A commitment to allow open discussion and free inquiry.
  • A statement that it is not the colleges’ role to shield members of the college community from ideas they disagree with.
  • A statement that while members of the college community are free to contest the views of others, they must also respect the rights of others to express their views.
  • An affirmation that speech that violates the law is not allowed.

The policy describes the procedures for handling complaints and ensuring there is compliance. The policy also states that it is aligned with other College policies and they shall all be considered together. Once it takes effect on Jan. 1, it will apply to the entire College community – including employees, students, guests, and visitors to Algonquin’s campuses.

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For more information:

Ruth Dunley, Communications Manager
Algonquin College
Office: 613-727-4723 ext. 6452
dunleyr@algonquincollege.com

Chris Lackner, Communications Officer
Algonquin College
Office: 613-727-4723 ext. 2091
lacknec@algonquincollege.com


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