Consultation 2024-25

After robust consultation processes in 2018-2019 and 2021-2022, Carleton University has continued to review and make revisions to the Sexual Violence Policy. As noted in the work plan, to address the ongoing feedback received since the last review of the Policy, it was advised that consideration should be given to clarify the Policy in the following areas: 

• 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.

Additionally, after carefully reviewing the feedback received during the listening phase of the consultation process, several main themes emerged:

• Training and Awareness
• Policy Administration
• Response
• Support and Resources

A report has been organized by these themes (PDF 314 KB) and has the aggregated feedback received during the consultation process. As a content warning, please note that the report includes a summary of the feedback received throughout the listening phase in aggregate. We understand that reviewing the report can trigger strong reactions and we encourage the community to connect with various support and resources.

Revised Draft

After carefully reviewing the areas to consider as per the work plan and the feedback received, draft updates to the Policy have been made with tracked changes which include:

• Addition of the production and distribution of intimate images including generative AI as an example to the definition of “Sexual Harassment” (section 4.1)
• Addition of “Sexual Misconduct” definition per Bill 26 (section 4.1)
• Addition of who is not eligible to serve on the Sexual Violence Prevention and Education Committee (section 5.2)
• Update to the web link for additional supports and services (section 6.2)
• Update to the supports available to Complainants and Respondents (section 8.4)
• Removal of Respondent’s ability to initiate an alternative resolution process (section 8.10)
• Addition of when the formal complaint process shall be suspended (section 9.1(c))
• Addition of section 9.7 (d) regarding appeals of trespass order(s)
• General updates to confirm within the Policy, the processes already happening in practice such as the addition of responsibility for educational and training initiatives in section 5.3 and training that is trauma-informed for the Sexual Violence Review Committee and Appeal Board in sections 6.5 (c) and 10.2.
• General updates to titles, names, infrastructure references, formatting, grammar, etc.

All members of the Carleton community are invited to review the feedback report from the listening phase (PDF 314 KB) and the revised draft of the policy with tracked changes (PDF 641 KB). and provide additional feedback and comments on the draft changes.

Submit Feedback

You can provide feedback on the revised draft sexual violence policy using the anonymous form below, by emailing svpolicy@carleton.ca, and by participating in an upcoming information and feedback session.

Work Plan and Timeline

Process Consultation Phase

Listening Phase

Tactical Phase

Drafting Phase

Fine-Tuning Phase

Finalization Phase

Miscellaneous Documents

Carleton’s Revised Sexual Violence Policy Draft (Jan 21, 2025)

Final Work Plan for the 2024-25 Sexual Violence Policy Review

Draft Work Plan for the 2024-25 Sexual Violence Policy Review