Community News Update - April 26, 2024
NDP statement on alleged sexual violence at Western University
QUEEN'S PARK — The NDP's critic for Women's Issues Jill Andrew (Toronto-St. Paul's) and the critic for Colleges and Universities Laura Mae Lindo (Kitchener Centre) released the following statement in response to allegations of multiple incidences of sexual violence at Western University student residences:
"We stand in solidarity with the students at Western University speaking out against sexual violence on campus, and our hearts are with the survivors of these alleged heinous crimes.
Women and girls have a right to be and to feel safe on campus — everywhere on campus. Our universities must have absolute zero tolerance for sexual and gender-based violence, and in every single case, the perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence must be held to account.
Our universities and colleges continue to be hurt by successive governments' underfunding of campus and community services that support survivors of sexual violence, meaning survivors often face long wait lists. The Ford government's cuts to rape crisis centres, and to programs that support student safety, including Women's Centres and resources to support mental health and well-being, as well his attack on student unions, have made things worse.
We will continue to fight for full justice and accountability for perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence on Ontario campuses, including anyone involved with this weekend’s alleged actions at Western University, as well as greater supports for survivors."
