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We are pleased to provide this report on the implementation of Laurier's free speech policy framework. The contents of this report cover the period from August 1, 2025 to July 31, 2026.
The Task Force on Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom, led by the Provost & Vice-President: Academic, continues its work of reviewing the free speech policy framework with recommendations forthcoming during the 2026/27 academic year.
The free speech policy framework is found on Laurier's website.
Events are referred to Safety, Health, Environment and Risk Management (SHERM) and Special Constable Services (SCS) to determine whether an Event Safety and Security Plan (ESSP) needs to be completed. The ESSP is completed in collaboration with the event organizer(s). When security is necessary to ensure that the event can proceed safely, the event organizer is notified of the incremental, direct costs of providing the security necessary for the event to proceed safely. If the organizer proceeds with the event, security is arranged by the University and the costs of security are invoiced to the event organizer.
To the best of our knowledge, there were no non-curricular events that did not proceed due to security concerns or their related costs during the reporting period.
On the university’s public-facing policy website, the University Secretariat is the main point of contact for questions about policy interpretation. The Secretariat receives inquiries and directs any complaints as appropriate. The Office of Human Rights and Conflict Management receives inquiries and complaints on a wide variety of topics. This office is also responsible for liaising with the Ontario Ombudsman.
There were no official complaints received during the reporting period.
|
Type of Event/Complaint |
Number |
|---|---|
|
Estimated number of non-curricular events.1 |
3,750 |
|
Number of official complaints received under the free speech policy relating to curricular and non-curricular events. |
0 |
|
Number of official complaints reviewed that did not proceed. |
0 |
|
Number of official complaints where the institution determined that the free speech policy was not followed appropriately. |
0 |
|
Number of complaints under the free speech policy that resulted in the institution applying disciplinary or other institutional measures. |
0 |
|
Number of free speech complaints forwarded to the Ontario Ombudsman. |
0 |
1 Non-curricular events include, for example, invited speakers, sporting events, rallies, conferences, etc., as opposed to regular events held as part of an academic program or course.