Policies
In addition to the Principles of Freedom of Expression and Inclusive Engagement, a set of interacting policies support and inform how we protect these fundamental rights. Below are the UWaterloo policies, agreements and laws central to maintaining freedom of expression at the University of Waterloo.
Free expression and Canadian law
In Canada, including Ontario, freedom of expression is a fundamental right protected by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Canadian laws uphold the principle of free expression at universities, but there are certain limitations and considerations in place to balance this right with other important values, such as diversity, inclusivity, and preventing harm.
Other agreements informing free expression
Faculty Association MOA
The Memorandum of Agreement sets out terms and conditions of employment for all “regular faculty,” and describes procedures for developing and revising University policies concerning terms and conditions of employment. It defines and describes the relationship between the University and the Association while ensuring regular communication and consultation between the parties and provides means for resolving differences which may arise between them. Examples of items covered under the MOA are integrity in scholarly research, academic freedom, discipline, and non-discrimination.
Click here for more on the Faculty Association MOA
News
University starts legal process to end encampment
At the end of last week the University of Waterloo issued a legal Trespass Notice to members of the protest encampment on the Grad House Green. The Trespass Notice required the encampment to leave immediately or face consequences in accordance with the Trespass to Property Act.
Unfortunately, the encampment remains in place in violation of Waterloo policies, and the law.
Today, lawyers representing the University served court documents to start a legal process to enforce the Trespass Notice and end the encampment.
The University is seeking an interlocutory injunction to end the encampment. Subject to the court’s approval, documents related to the legal process will be made available publicly through our legal counsel’s website.
Legal Documents
In line with our commitment to be transparent in our interactions with encampment protesters, the University is making the legal documents filed today available for our community to read.
Subject to the court’s approval, further documents related to the legal process will be made available publicly through our legal counsel’s website.
Read the Statement of Claim
Read the Notice of Motion
Notice of Trespass
This is a copy of a Trespass Notice issued to all encampment participants under the Trespass to Property Act, R.S.O.1990, c. T. 21. on Friday, June 21, 2024.
It provides notice that members of the encampment are immediately prohibited from:
1. Occupying and remaining in the field in front of the Graduate House on the University of Waterloo campus in Waterloo, Ontario (the "Encampment");
2. Erecting, installing, or maintaining unauthorized tents, shelters, equipment, or other structures on University of Waterloo property, including in the Encampment;
3. Occupying, gathering, or remaining at the University of Waterloo property, including at the Encampment between the hours of 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. unless specifically authorized; and,
4. Gathering for the purpose of an Encampment at the University of Waterloo or in a manner inconsistent with our policies.