At Waterloo, members of Executive Council (Vice-Presidents, Deans, Associate Vice-Presidents, Associate Provosts and other senior leaders) play a critical role in stewarding our core mission and representing our institution to a broad range of audiences.
As leaders, members of Executive Council often face calls from their constituents to communicate a perspective, viewpoint, or stance on political, social, or moral matters.
Consistent with Waterloo’s Statement on Institutional Neutrality, Institutional Restraint, and Communications, Executive Council members are expected to uphold institutional neutrality and restraint. By virtue of their positions, Executive Council members’ statements and activities may be understood to carry the endorsement of the University—even when these statements are intended to reflect a personal or scholarly opinion.
When leaders speak out on matters within or adjacent to their academic expertise, it can inadvertently be perceived as an institutional stance. As such, leaders are expected to exercise caution and restraint, taking into account how public statements may be viewed in relation to the institution’s commitment to neutrality.
Collective bodies within the University, such as Faculties, Schools, Departments, Centres and Institutes, are asked to clearly indicate that statements made reflect the perspectives of members of a specific group, not those of the University or of a unit as a whole. A copy of guidance for collective bodies is available online on the Freedom of Expression Website.
The University recognizes that local and global events often intersect directly with the academic expertise and interests of our leaders. While nothing in this statement overrides the principles of academic freedom, leaders are urged to consider how their public advocacy, especially on contentious issues, might influence or inhibit the robust exchange of ideas within the broader University community. Leaders should direct attention to the supports, resources, and forums available for open dialogue, rather than adopt or amplify a singular institutional perspective.
When in doubt about the appropriateness of making a statement or taking a public stance, Executive Council members are encouraged to consult with the Office of the President, the President’s Advisory Committee on Freedom of Expression, the Secretariat or the Associate Vice-President, Communications to seek advice.
For additional information, please review Waterloo’s Task Force on Freedom of Expression and Inclusive Engagement report and related policies available on the Freedom of Expression website.