The Office of Sexual Violence Support and Education has released an updated version of Ryerson’s sexual violence policy.
Ryerson community members can submit confidential feedback until Dec. 2 at 12 p.m. to vps@ryerson.ca.
The revised policy was originally scheduled to be presented to the Ryerson Board of Governors for its approval at the Nov. 24 meeting. According to the office’s website, the revised policy will now go to a December meeting of the Board’s Executive Committee in order to include more community input, especially from students.
Vice-Provost Students Heather Lane Vetere is expected provide an update on the policy at the Board meeting this Thursday.
The original policy was created in consultation with the Ryerson community during 2014 and 2015. It was approved by the Board of Governors in June 2015.
The updated policy was drafted in order to meet the regulations mandated by the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development, and to include more community voices.
Throughout the semester, the school had been hosting town halls and a series of workshops on sexual violence tailored to students, faculty and staff.
Updates to the policy include:
- A change in review periods from every 4 years to every 2 years.
- A more detailed outline of Ryerson’s commitment to survivor support and accommodation.
- A new section on adjudication of reports and complaints, including alternative options to investigations.
- A list of supports and services available in the community.
Jennie Pearson is the Managing Editor for print and a News Editor at the Ryersonian.