Dear UVSS Members,
In a recent UVSS Board Meeting, a member of the Board tried to pre-emptively bar a student from speaking during question period. This student attended the board meeting to inquire about proper conduct when interacting with students, specifically in relation to a concerning and hostile interaction with a member of the Board. Due to the behaviour of the board member towards the student, we want to formally apologize.
We would like to reaffirm that all UVSS members have a right to attend board meetings and ask questions during the designated question period without fear of harassment. As per our Safer Spaces Policy, we have a commitment to fostering a safe and respectful environment.
The behaviour that was committed is unacceptable. Any elected representative of the UVSS student body has a duty to listen to students concerns regarding UVSS business and maintain proper conduct, regardless of their personal opinions.
The Board recognizes that these actions and behaviour may dissuade students from attending and speaking up during question period. We want you to know that question period is a safe space for you to speak to your representatives, and we are committed to upholding a welcoming and safe environment for all students.
We also know that some people may not feel comfortable speaking during question period, in which case we encourage you to submit your questions to Advocacy Group representatives, UVSS excluded management, or any board member you feel comfortable with to speak on your behalf. If you are concerned about decisions that have been made or need an independent party to speak to, we encourage you to speak to the Ombudsperson.
We recognize our mistakes and are committed to ensuring this type of behaviour does not happen again. Going forward, we will continue to create safe places for all students, where they can share their voice with their student society.
Sincerely,
UVSS Board of Directors
Resources
Ombudsperson
Contact: ombudsperson@uvic.ca
Advocacy groups and their representatives on the board
NSU Firekeeper: firekeeper@uvicnsu.ca
SOCC representative: soccrep@uvss.ca
GEM representative: gemrep@uvss.ca
SSD representative: ssdrep@uvic.ca
Pride representative: priderep@uvss.ca
UVSS contact page
Contact the UVSS: https://uvss.ca/contact-us/