On May 20, we announced the creation of three expert panels tasked with supporting the University’s action plan to prevent and respond to sexual violence (Announcement of Expert Panels to Guide the University’s Response to Sexual Violence). I am pleased to share with you the final recommendations of the Expert Panel on Sexual Violence Policies, chaired by Professor of Law and Provost of Trinity College, Mayo Moran.

The Expert Panel was charged with advising myself and Professor Angela Hildyard, Vice-President, Human Resources & Equity, on principles and recommendations for a new stand-alone policy on sexual violence, and with providing general recommendations for revisions to existing University policies addressing sexual violence and sexual harassment. As well, the Expert Panel was to make recommendations regarding a companion document that will explain procedures related to the approved policies.

The Panel completed its work following consultations with students, faculty, and staff across the University of Toronto’s three campuses, and careful consideration of over 100 submissions to the online consultation website.

The Expert Panel’s recommendations are available on the website of the Office of the Vice-President & Provost. The University will consider these recommendations as it drafts its new sexual violence policy. Opportunities to consult on a draft policy will be provided in the fall and will be posted online. The new policy will come into effect on or before January 1, 2017, as required by provincial legislation.

We wish to thank each of the panelists for their commitment and service to the University. Questions or comments can be sent to provost@utoronto.ca.

Expert Panel on Sexual Violence Policies

Mayo Moran (Chair), Professor, Faculty of Law, and Provost, Trinity College
Saagarika Coleman (Undergraduate Student), Victoria College, Faculty of Arts & Science
Lahoma Thomas (Graduate Student), Department of Political Science, Faculty of Arts & Science
Mark Overton (Administrative Staff Member), Dean of Student Affairs, and Assistant Principal, Student Services, University of Toronto Mississauga
Brenda Cossman (Faculty Member), Professor, Faculty of Law, and Director, Mark S. Bonham Centre for Sexual Diversity Studies