USC Statement on Action Committee and Independent Review Reports

Trigger Warning: Sexual & Gender-Based Violence

We’re ready for change – and we know Western is too.

The recommendations released today in the Promoting Transformative Change at Western: Report of the Action Committee on Gender-Based and Sexual Violence and Independent Review of Western University Policies, Procedures and Processes related to the events on campus of Sept. 10 & 11, 2021 reports are a positive step forward in addressing the systemic and structural issues that contribute to sexual and gender-based violence on our campus. 

We’re pleased to see many of the recommendations the USC has been advocating for this past year reflected in both reports, including: mandatory consent modules for incoming students, the hiring of more ASGBV-focused staff to support the campus community, and the provision of ASGBV resources to all students, faculty and staff. 

However, this isn’t where it ends. We will hold Western accountable to implementing these recommendations through tangible actions that are in the best interest of all students. 

We acknowledge that this has been a long and pivotal year, and that these reports may be difficult for those affected by the return to campus last September. We encourage campus community members to seek supports if needed. 

We’ve seen the power of the collective student voice this year, and we want to continue the conversation with you. Provide your feedback on the reports and recommendations using this link. 

“A partnership between students and administration is essential for gender based and sexual violence to be meaningfully addressed. Students know how and where it happens. They must have the space to tell that story. Western has the responsibility to protect its students and staff, and it has the means to respond and to address the issue.” – Independent Review, pg. 6