Universities play a vital role in helping society to advance. That role is rooted in academic freedom and responsibility. The freedoms to speak or express yourself and to examine, question, teach and learn are central to our purpose.
The University of Waterloo’s mission – enshrined in the University of Waterloo Act – is to advance learning and knowledge through teaching, research, and scholarship, nationally and internationally, in an environment of free expression and inquiry.
The University of Waterloo is a signatory to the Magna Charta Universitatum which upholds four fundamental principles: moral and intellectual independence of teaching and research; the inseparable nature of teaching and research; freedom in research and teaching; and the affirmation of the vital need for different cultures to know and influence each other in the constant pursuit of universal knowledge.
Like all universities in the 21st Century, we find ourselves at a point where global turmoil is compounded by advances in communication technology, meaning people can speak and express themselves at speeds, distances and scopes that would have been unimaginable to the founders of this institution.
Principles of Freedom of Expression and Inclusive Engagement
In November 2023, the University launched a Freedom of Expression and Respectful Engagement Task Force to develop principles of freedom of expression for the University of Waterloo to help ensure we maintain a campus environment for open inquiry and exchange, free expression, and inclusive engagement.
Over a period of six months, the Task Force reviewed the University’s existing policies and guidelines related to freedom of expression, examined the current state of freedom of expression across the University, and consulted with the University community.
We are pleased to share the Task Force’s final report, and will share more details about how we will implement these principles into our work across the institution.
President's response
Learn more about free expression at UWaterloo
Contact information
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