McMaster approves new Sexual Violence Policy

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The University’s Board of Governors and Senate this week approved a new Sexual Violence Policy, outlining McMaster’s commitment to a campus that is free of sexual violence.

“This is a significant step in our ongoing efforts to prevent and address sexual violence,” says McMaster President Patrick Deane. “Every member of the McMaster community has a right to study, work and live in an environment free of sexual violence. It is our responsibility to ensure there is a clear and straightforward policy so that survivors feel able to disclose incidents and receive support, and there is a complaint and investigative process that is timely and fair to all.”

The policy is the result of an extensive process of cross-campus discussion, consultation and feedback. Students, faculty and staff had opportunities for input and for comment on policy drafts.

It is applicable to all members of the McMaster community including students, staff, faculty, volunteers and visitors, and applies to all acts of sexual violence where the University has the jurisdiction to pursue, adjudicate or take steps to safeguard the community. It outlines the supports available to Survivors, as well as the process for making disclosures and initiating complaints, and specifies the investigation and adjudication process to be followed.

The University is committed to prevention through education and has invested in additional supports and resources to help raise awareness about sexual violence and its prevention and provide training to the community. The Sexual Violence Response Coordinator is available to provide information and support to all members of the University community, and the policy also outlines a range of other offices and supports available on campus and in the local community.

The policy can be found here.

 

 

 

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