It is almost a year now since the regrettable events that occurred in Vari Hall on January 20th, 2005. It is not my intention to revisit the details of those events here, but rather to focus on the positive steps we have taken to ensure that such unfortunate events do not recur on our campus.
First and foremost, the President’s Working Group on the Temporary Use of University Space comprising students, faculty members – many appointed by Senate - and staff has been meeting regularly for many months to formulate a policy that accommodates the triple objectives of:
- protecting the academy
- the right of free speech
- and the safety of the York community.
Extensive consultations have been held with user groups and related agencies on campus and a series of recommendations for changes included. We have all worked through many of the irritants and obstacles that previously existed and while not everyone will be satisfied, nonetheless the members of the Working Group see it as significant change.
The document will provide a more clear, user-friendly and comprehensive foundation for the many activities we want in the York community. A draft has already been circulated and a final policy paper is expected in the next few weeks. It will be reported to Senate as soon as it is complete.
In the past year, we have also established an Office of Temporary Use of University Space, with full-time staff specifically dedicated to meeting the many needs of the York community. This office, under the leadership of Stephanie Marston, has worked tirelessly to ensure that requests for space from inside and outside the York community can be properly met in line with the three principles outlined above.
This past summer we met with Toronto Police Services Chief Bill Blair during his visit to the Keele Campus and discussed our concerns with the events of 20 January 2005. We are confident that he understands our desire for a safe community consistent with the full expression of a wide range of ideas consistent with the laws of Canada.
At the same time Mike Markicevic, our Executive Director of Security, Parking and Transportation Services has been working with Toronto Police Services 31 Division so that the very real issues of security and safety that we all face can be addressed in a constructive and cooperative way that reflects the values of the York community.
As a community we have come a long way in the past year, and I look forward to a vibrant 2006 as we embrace the challenges of the year ahead.
