September 23, 2024
Dear Dr. Gordon,
The Canadian Muslim Public Affairs Council (CMPAC) wishes to express its support for the University of Windsor’s ethical decision to engage in dialogue with the Windsor Liberation Zone Team and finalize agreements that prioritize transparency, inclusivity, and human rights. Your commitment to fostering a balanced and respectful relationship with your student community is commendable, especially in an environment where such actions can be met with opposition from various groups.
As reflected in CMPAC’s previous letter of support, sent on July 19, 2024, we appreciate UWindsor’s decision to align its investment practices with global human rights standards. This decision serves as a meaningful example for other institutions across Canada, emphasizing the importance of responsible investment and open dialogue while upholding ethical principles that resonate with our society’s values of fairness and equality.
We recognize that the agreements reached on July 10, 2024, extend beyond a resolution to specific protests; they reflect a dedication to academic freedom, inclusion and justice. By opting for engagement rather than blanket boycotts, UWindsor has demonstrated a thoughtful approach to complex global issues, maintaining respect for diverse viewpoints. This careful and thoughtful response should be lauded, not criticized, and we commend the University for taking the path of integrity, even in the face of pressure. However, we ask UWindsor to remain vigilant about the influence of external donors and stakeholders, ensuring that its commitment to impartiality and independence is upheld.
Furthermore, the University of Windsor’s dedication to transparency through annual investment disclosures and its commitment to supporting students affected by conflict – whether through scholarships or the expansion of trauma-informed counseling – are critical steps in building a more equitable and just academic community. These initiatives show that UWindsor is genuinely invested in creating an environment where all students, particularly those from underrepresented or marginalized communities, can succeed and thrive. It further supports students, including Palestinian students, in their pursuit of education and advocating for their rights in a respectful, just, and balanced manner. This, in turn, contributes to a more inclusive and fair academic environment for all.
The recent revocation of financial support from certain alumni highlights a concerning trend of selective outrage, where only select causes gain visibility and support. It is essential to recognize that advocating for Palestinian rights does not negate or diminish the experiences of other communities. We commend UWindsor for promoting a culture of inclusivity that condemns all forms of hate while uplifting the voices of all students.
CMPAC recognizes the significance of this decision for the broader academic landscape in our country. The Canadian community stands firmly behind the University of Windsor’s decision to serve as an example of how institutions can navigate difficult issues with grace, ethics, and a commitment to human rights. We urge other Canadian institutions to follow UWindsor’s lead and prioritize fairness and justice in their own policies and practices.
In closing, we extend our full support to the University of Windsor and encourage you to continue standing strong in the face of adversity. Your commitment to fostering an inclusive, safe, and respectful environment is a testament to your leadership and the core values that the University of Windsor represents.
Sincerely,
Canadian Muslim Public Affairs Council (CMPAC)
cc:
Beverley Hamilton, Chief of Staff to the President and Vice-Chancellor
Marian Gayad, Vice-President External
Dr. Robert Aguirre Provost and Vice-President Academic
Gillian Heisz Vice-President, Finance and Operations,
Reem A. Bahdi, Dean of the University of Windsor Law School
Jhoan Baluyot, Executive Director, Public Affairs And Communications
Kimberly Benoit, Executive Director, Academic Labour Relations
Sherri Lynne Menard, Director, Campus Safety And Emergency Planning
Richard Taylor, Director Of Legal Services
Krista Devine, University Counsel And Chief Legal Officer
Kaye Johnson, Executive Director – Human Rights, Equity And Accessibility
