The University of Windsor is seeking input from the campus community and public in its process to review the name of Sir John A. Macdonald Hall.

The move is in response to a petition gathered by a University of Windsor alumnus regarding the name of the residence building, Macdonald’s involvement in and support of the residential schools system, and its impact on ethnic and racialized groups, particularly First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples.

President Robert Gordon initiated the process with a committee representing such University stakeholders as the on-campus Aboriginal community, Residence Services, the University of Windsor Students’ Alliance, and others.

“Like other universities across Canada we are taking a new look at past naming practices,” says committee member and spokesperson Bruce Tucker.

“We are hoping to open the conversation in a way that is constructive and addresses the concerns of affected members of our campus community, as well as others who wish to voice their opinions and viewpoints. Our goal as a university has always been to provide a welcoming, inclusive campus for all, and we see this process as a step in a more positive direction.”

Individuals are invited to share their feedback and suggestions at: https://uwindsor.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4VCewyoAbpQy6W1

Written feedback can be directed to:

• Diane Rawlings
  Head of Residence Services Department and committee chair
  401 Sunset Ave.
  Windsor, Ontario, N9B 3P4.

The committee will summarize its findings and recommendations in a report to the university’s Board of Governors. The deadline for submissions is Oct. 28.