The Sheridan Student Union (SSU) is aware of an activist visit currently underway at our Trafalgar Campus today. The SSU has expressed concern surrounding these planned activist activities since the group has not been invited by the College, the SSU or any student group we’re aware of.
The SSU encourages free speech in all of our student spaces. Despite this, the SSU believes that external non-student groups should be invited by the College or SSU to address such issues in appropriate forums and in respectful ways.
The SSU encourages any students who are negatively impacted by these planned activities to seek support from the resources that Sheridan College is making available.
Please see below for more information from Sheridan College.
"The CCBR is an anti-abortion advocacy group. As they have advised Sheridan, the purpose of their visits is to conduct outreach events, involving a small group of volunteers who stand in indoor, public access areas of the campus, with signs and literature, which may be graphic in nature. Sheridan’s approach to CCBR’s request to attend our campuses is rooted in the notion that freedom of expression is important at post-secondary institutions.
Sheridan is committed to being an organization that fosters inquiry, welcomes diverse opinions and values dialogue and debate. Sheridan supports students, employees and other groups in sharing their views on different subjects, including those that may be considered to be uncomfortable or controversial to some, when such expression is done in a safe and respectful manner and does not promote hatred or obscenities.
By allowing the CCBR to attend Sheridan’s campuses in accordance with our policy and procedure, it does not mean that Sheridan necessarily endorses the CCBR’s views. Sheridan does not take a position on either side of the pro-life/pro-choice debate."
Sheridan and Sheridan Student Union is committed to providing a safe and welcoming campus environment and we understand that some members of our community may find the CCBR’s materials upsetting.
Any students seeking comfort and support may access counselling through both scheduled and drop-in appointments. Services can be arranged via email at askanadvisor@sheridancollege.ca or by visiting or calling the Student Services Centre at:
- Trafalgar B104 -- (905) 845-9430 ext. 2557(for Trafalgar and STC students)
- Davis B230 -- (905) 845-9430 ext. 5400
- HMC Welcome Desk -- (905) 845-9430 ext. 2528
For anyone with concerns regarding the behaviour or conduct of any individuals or groups distributing information on campus, please contact Campus Security at ext. 4044 or security@sheridancollege.ca