Statement from the Provost about event booked at SFU

We have received several questions about an event entitled “How media bias shapes the gender debate” that was booked at an SFU campus by an SFU faculty member. Universities operate on the principle that freedom of expression is a core component of intellectual enquiry and central to the pursuit of knowledge. As such, we support the right of faculty and other SFU community members to engage in free speech within the limits of the law.   

While we value free expression, this does not imply that we endorse the views expressed. On the contrary, it is understood that all ideas, beliefs and opinions are subject to analysis and criticism that may result in their modification or rejection. SFU is deeply committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and to safeguarding the rights of our LGBTQ2+ community. As such, we support the right of trans community members to define their own gender identity and to be respected, within SFU and our community at large.

For more information about SFU’s stance on free speech and respectful debate at SFU, see: https://www.sfu.ca/pres/petterspeeches/2011/201103.html.

Jon Driver, Vice-President, Academic and Provost, pro tem