Concordia's official position on student protests

University and Cegep students in the province are in different stages of action to oppose the increase in tuition fees, as announced by the Quebec government in last year’s budget. At Concordia, several student associations have voted in favour of boycotting classes as a form of protest. In some cases, boycotts have already begun.

Concordia University has a responsibility to provide services that are part of its agreement with its students, even if some students choose not to attend class as a form of protest. Therefore, the university will continue regular operations during these protests. Standard services will remain available and all instructional activities, including classes, tutorials, labs and studio sessions, will be held as scheduled.

All faculty members are expected to fulfill their duties and responsibilities, and all staff members are expected to report for work. Students have the freedom to decide whether or not they attend classes.

Concordia University respects the freedom of students to express their views on important issues. We remain in ongoing discussions with student leaders, and continue maintaining open lines of communication to ensure the safety of faculty members, staff and students. Security agents are present throughout the university’s two campuses to monitor the situation.

The university’s expectation is that protest action will not disrupt the functioning of the university nor prevent people from entering the university’s premises (buildings, classrooms, etc.), as outlined in the university’s Code of Rights and Responsibilities (Policy BD-3) and Security Policy (VPS-20).

A series of responses to frequently asked questions has been prepared for faculty members, staff and students. These questions are updated on a regular basis.