Queen’s University is seeking comment on its updated draft sexual violence policy, which has been modified to align with the recently introduced provincial legislation and policies at other universities in Ontario.

“This policy will be a critical component in our continuing work on sexual violence prevention and response,” says Provost and Vice-Principal (Academic) Alan Harrison. “It aligns with provincial legislation, recommendations from the university’s Sexual Violence Prevention Working Group, and best practices across the sector.”

An implementation team, chaired by the provost, has been in place since July, advancing the working group’s recommendations. The draft policy, and all sexual violence education and training programs and initiatives that have been implemented to date, have been developed with extensive student input and involvement.

Most recently, Queen’s announced the creation of a dedicated Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Coordinator position. The coordinator will be a central point of contact for students, staff and faculty and will lead campus-wide education, response, support, training and advocacy activities. The university has also introduced new education programming for students during Orientation Week, created new resources and training for students, staff and faculty, and worked to enhance the profile of sexual violence support services on and off campus with a new poster and updates to the Green Folder resource.

The draft sexual violence policy articulates the university’s commitment to addressing sexual violence and the comprehensive supports that will be offered to individuals who have experienced sexual violence. It also outlines the university’s responsibilities relating to awareness, education, training, and reporting.

The Queen’s community is invited to comment on the draft policy by emailing policies@queensu.ca until Feb. 2, 2016.

Review the draft policy