Prince George, B.C. – Both post-secondary institutions in Prince George announced today they’ve enacted sexual violence and misconduct policies.

UNBC’s policy has been in the works more than eight months and provides clear definitions, outlines UNBC’s commitments and deals with matters such as jurisdiction and safety.

A set of procedures has also been outlined to help differentiate between reports and disclosures, process choices, and confidentiality and privacy restrictions.

The work was led by a committee chaired by faculty member Dr. Gary Wilson which worked closely with a wide range of stakeholders, including students, faculty, staff and senior administration.

The policy is a response to provincial legislation brought forward last year that mandates the creation of such a policy at all post-secondary institutions in B.C.

“Sexual violence and misconduct are never acceptable,” said Dr. Daniel Weeks, UNBC president and Vice-Chancellor. “We are committed to providing members of the University community with a safe, supportive and respectful environment in which to live, learn and work.”

“I think it’s a great thing for UNBC,” added Erik Searle, president of the Northern Undergraduate Student Society. “I think it helps ensure that everyone on campus is treated fairly and equally.”

Does he think it will work?

“I do. I think there’s some next steps that need to happen. There’s a lot of talk about the Response and Support team that will be created to help ensure everybody has somebody they can go to and feel comfortable,” says Searle.

“This policy is also preventative and may help people who previously felt uncomfortable disclosing something, to feel more comfortable bringing this forward.”

You can view the entire policy by clicking here.

CNC’s policy is also the result of eight months of extensive consultation and engagement and in a news release, the College says the policy includes an accompanying set of procedures to ensure the College “enjoys a healthier and safer work and study environment.”

The policy was formally approved by the College’s Board of Governors on May 9.

“Sexual misconduct is never acceptable,” said CNC president Henry Reiser. “This process has reinforced our commitment to providing members of the College of New Caledonia community with a safe, supportive and respectful environment.”