UWOFA Welcomes Withdrawal of Restrictive Administrative Procedures, Urges Continued Vigilance

(London, Ont.) — The University of Western Ontario Faculty Association (UWOFA) is encouraged by the recent decision of the administration at Western University to withdraw the controversial Policy 1.1.1 (Prohibition of Camping on University Property) and Procedure 1.1 (Obtaining Authorization to Hold a Demonstration). This decision follows substantial pushback from students, faculty, librarians, and archivists, who were rightfully concerned about the lack of consultation and the potential infringement on academic freedom and free expression.

While UWOFA welcomes this move, we disagree with the administration’s characterization of these procedures as merely a codification of existing practices. This misrepresentation does not align with the experiences of our members or the broader campus community, who viewed these measures as an overreach that threatened fundamental rights.

“We remain committed to ensuring that any future policy developments involve comprehensive consultation,” said Johanna Weststar, President of UWOFA. “We will continue to safeguard our collective agreement rights, which include meaningful involvement in decisions that impact academic freedom and the campus environment.”

UWOFA has retained its active grievances related to these procedures and will remain vigilant throughout the consultation process to come. We will work to ensure that any new or revised policies not only respect our collective agreements but also incorporate the perspectives of other key campus stakeholders in accordance with the University’s own MAPP 1.51 policy.

Contact:
Bethany Taylor, UWOFA Communications and Engagement Officer
outreach@uwofa.ca
519-661-2111 x. 87965