Keyano Board of Governors affirm Free Speech principles

In principles supported by our Board of Governors, Keyano College has a deep institutional commitment to free speech, the acceptance of difference, and ownership of freedom of expression.

As we develop a Freedom of Speech policy that reflects this commitment and aligns with Alberta Advanced Education’s initiatives,by motion on July 11, the Keyano College Board of Governors advanced the following principles related to Free Speech:

1. Free speech may not violate Canadian law; and
2. Institutions are places of free and open inquiry in all matters, and all members of each institution's community are guaranteed the broadest possible latitude to speak, write, listen, challenge, and learn; and
3. Community members have the right to criticize and question other views expressed on campus, but cannot obstruct or interfere with others' freedom of speech; and
4. Institutions should not attempt to shield students from ideas or opinions they disagree with or find offensive. Mutual respect and civility are valued, but do not constitute sufficient justification to limit free speech; and
5. The institution may reasonably regulate the time, place, and manner of expression to ensure that it does not disrupt the ordinary activities of the institution; and
6. The institution may restrict expression that violates the law, falsely defames an individual, or constitutes a genuine threat or harassment that unjustifiably invades substantial privacy or confidentiality of interests; and
7. Debate or deliberation may not be suppressed because the ideas put forward are thought by some, or even most, to be offensive, unwise, immoral or wrong headed; and
8. It is for individuals, not the institution, to make those judgements for themselves and to act by not seeking to suppress speech, but by openly and vigorously contesting the ideas they oppose."