The saga of Western University’s Procedure 1.1: why did it come, go, and will it return?

 

On August 29, Western University administration imposed Procedure 1.1: Obtaining Authorization to Hold a Demonstration. The procedure demands that no demonstrations, including “picketing, marching, carrying signs, distribution of literature, and other related activities, usually in favour of or opposed to some action or opinion,” occur on campus without the approval of the Director of Campus Safety & Emergency Services.

Students view the procedure as stifling free speech. Faculty call it authoritarian. Legal scholars argue it may violate institutional, provincial, and federal laws, including the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. All view the procedure as a direct response to recent campus activism for human rights in Palestine.

On September 9, the administration said it will “pause” the procedure due to “concerns from the community” and will revisit the procedure within a policy review process.

Faculty say that the procedure never underwent initial consultation, a violation of due institutional process (see Consultation). They are wary that the administration will merely impose an altered version of the procedure, noting its harsh history with student protesters.

Here are the convictions from students, faculty, and a legal scholar that arguably led the administration to pause the procedure.  (more...)

The saga of Western University’s Procedure 1.1: why did it come, go, and will it return?