The University of Windsor is comprised of individuals from various backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, and all members possess the right to express their views in alignment with our Freedom of Expression policy. The University is steadfast in its commitment to maintaining an environment where everyone can express their viewpoints and feel safe, respected and valued.
The University campus is a place for learning, where open and respectful discussions are encouraged. It is vital that these discussions never turn into expressions of hatred or violence. We encourage all community members to engage in open dialogue and actions that promote better understanding, compassion and unity.
We will encourage opportunities for exchange and collaboration across units and roles within the institution and beyond so that we can learn from and about each other. Increasing and expanding these connections will provide important continuity and lines of sight as we support and engage learners across the depth and breadth of their university experience.
The University of Windsor has a long-standing commitment to freedom of expression (free speech) in the university community. Freedom of expression protects the individual’s freedom to communicate - to speak to others, and to hear what others have to say - without interference from the state or from others.
The free exchanges of ideas and information is central to the university’s role as a place of learning and research. The university must permit and protect the free expression of its community members, subject only to limits necessary to protect the operation of the institution or to prevent harm to members of the university. The university must resist any attempt to interfere with the freedom of expression of its members and guests. The university has in place procedures for addressing interferences with the rights of the community’s members and guests to express themselves.
Read the University’s full policy on Freedom of Expression policy.
The University of Windsor places a high priority on the public safety of the campus community and is committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace and learning environment for its employees, students and visitors in compliance with relevant health and safety legislation, codes, standards and practices.
The Special Constable Service (formerly Campus Community Police) provide a safe and secure campus by providing a 24-hours, 7-days a week presence on campus to respond to routine and emergency calls for service, with regular patrols and the operation of an emergency dispatch centre.
If you are in need of assistance:
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For emergencies at any time, call (519) 253-3000 ext. 4444 or 911
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For non-emergencies, call (519) 253-3000 ext. 1234
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Calling 911 from a cell phone will go directly to the Windsor Police 911 Communications Centre
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Calling 911 from a University landline or campus emergency phone will go directly to the Special Constable Service Dispatch Centre.
The University of Windsor is committed to providing a safe learning and work environment and maintaining a campus that is violence free. If an individual feels threatened by what they consider hateful, harassing or threatening speech, they may bring their concerns to the Office of Human Rights, Equity and Accessibility or to their direct supervisor, Department Head or Dean, who will be able to assist them in navigating their options. If there is any concern for the security or safety of oneself or others, Special Constable Services should be notified. For emergencies call ext. 4444. For non-emergencies call ext. 1234.
The following provides preliminary guidance for determining which institutional policies may apply depending on whether the individual(s) engaging in possible hateful, harassing or threatening speech is a faculty member, staff member or student:
Freedom of Expression protects peaceful protest provided it does not disrupt academic or other activities on campus or violates Harassment and Violence policies.
Encampments are prohibited on the University of Windsor campus as outlined in the Parking Policy.
The maintenance and creation of a campus space that is safe for faculty, staff, students and visitors is paramount. If you are concerned about coming to campus during a demonstration or protest, please review the following information:
For UWindsor employees- If activities on campus leave you feeling discomfort or unsafe, please contact your Supervisor or contact Human Resources at avphr@uwindsor.ca. Any accommodation will be based on each employee's individual circumstances.
For current students – Students who are unable to attend campus for in-person learning should follow the usual protocol in reporting their absence through UWinSite Student (instructions).
For mandatory elements that require in-person attendance (e.g., mid-terms, assessments, tests, labs, studios, mandatory classes, etc.), please refer to the course outlines and/or Brightspace sites for course-specific reporting processes and follow any protocols required for the course when reporting an absence through UWinSite Student.
If you are in need of mental health resources, you are encouraged to use the variety of supports available for UWindsor students and employees.
Yes. The well-being of the University of Windsor community is of utmost importance and there are a variety of resources are available. Students, staff and faculty are encouraged to reach out if they need help.
For use of campus space, University of Windsor Faculty, students and staff should initially inquire with their Department Head, Dean or Supervisor about hosting an event to discuss appropriate protocols and receive approvals. Ratified student clubs and societies or other student incorporated groups (i.e. UWSA, GSS, OPUS, etc.) should refer to their specific Event Management Protocols when planning an on-campus event.
For other events that fall outside of these areas of responsibility, please visit the University of Windsor’s Office of Student Experience website on Student Event Planning and follow/complete the appropriate protocol links and forms.
For all other events private or by departments, please contact Catering Services for booking and catering information.
Once your event has been supported by your department/office (Faculty/Staff), Office of Student Experience (Students) complete the University of Windsor Event Request Form.