Sexual Violence Policy Review: Launching the Listening Phase

As a content warning, please note that this email includes information and links about sexual violence. We understand that reviewing this material could trigger strong reactions and we encourage the community to connect with various support and resources.

Dear Members of the Carleton Community,

As I have recently announced, we have launched a broad and inclusive consultation process towards the next review of the Sexual Violence Policy. At Carleton, we are deeply committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment. It is our shared responsibility to enhance our efforts in education, prevention and response to sexual violence. This regular review of the policy, conducted every three years, ensures that the policy remains responsive and supportive.

I want to thank everyone who provided feedback on the draft consultation process. To promote transparency, we have published the feedback received and our finalized work plan on the consultation website.

As we begin the listening phase of this important review, I encourage all members of the Carleton community to provide their feedback and comments through our consultation website, by email or during the feedback and information sessions. Our finalized consultation work plan identifies several key stakeholder groups we intend to consult with, but any interested group is welcome to reach out by email to arrange a closed session or meeting.

Following robust consultations and review processes in 2018-19  and again in 2021-2022 the current policy now allows more flexibility to be supportive to survivors throughout the process, while at the same time respecting the requirements for procedural fairness. Based on preliminary feedback, the following areas have been identified for further consideration:

• Review the provisions on interim measures and confidentiality
• Review section 6.5 (a) for survivor-centric considerations
• Review the objectives of the Sexual Violence Prevention and Education Committee
• Add a definition of sexual misconduct under Bill 26
• Review section 2.2 – Consensual Romantic or Sexual Relationship Guidelines
• General updates to titles, department names, processes, etc.

While we seek specific feedback on these areas, we welcome input on all aspects of the policy. Suggestions that may not directly apply to the policy will be forwarded to Equity and Inclusive Communities as part of Honouring Each Other, Carleton’s campus prevention strategy for sexual violence. We will continue to share all feedback received on our website to maintain transparency.

We look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with the entire community in this important policy review process and we thank you in advance for your engagement.

Sincerely,

Suzanne Blanchard
Vice-President (Students and Enrolment)