By Brenda Quenneville, North Bay
This is a message to the people coming forward with experiences of sexual harassment and/or violence at Canadore College:
I believe you.
Whether there was one of you, two dozen of you, or more - I believe you.
Whether you represent yourself or have an amazing, experienced and expert lawyer supporting you – I believe you.
I’m also very concerned. Concerned that the administration has publicly insinuated that one of you was a disgruntled employee – trying to discredit you before a proper investigation had even started.
I’m concerned that this institutional betrayal may have impacted you and silenced you.
I’m concerned that using this strategy to discredit you, may silence others, as they fear for similar attacks. I know that sexual violence thrives in environments where silence, isolation, and power are secured. I’m concerned that the administration doesn’t seem to know that. Are they not required to understand how sexual violence happens in post-secondary education settings and take steps to prevent and address it?
I want to say to you all, something that I believe the administration should have said, “Thank you for bringing these important issues to my attention. I am deeply concerned for the safety of all members of the Canadore community. Everyone has a right to work and learn in an environment that actively endorses respect, integrity, and safety.”
This International Women’s Day, I will be raising a glass in honour you all, your allies, and the community that I know is rallying behind you.
In solidarity,
Brenda Quenneville,
North Bay
