Harry Crowe Foundation Conference

Harry Crowe Foundation Conference

December 11, 2018

The Canadian Association of University Teachers (CAUT) will be presenting the Harry Crowe Foundation Conference in February.

This year’s topic is Free Speech on Campus:

Campus free speech, including the expression of controversial ideas and views, has long been seen as central to the teaching and learning mission of universities and colleges. Today, the notion of free speech has itself become the focus of an increasingly polarized debate. On the one hand, there are demands that expression that is seen as offensive or disrespectful be prohibited in order to ensure an inclusive, safe, and harassment-free learning environment. On the other side, critics deride universities and colleges for violating free speech by censoring opinions and views that some find uncomfortable or offensive. This conference will explore this debate by assessing the state of free expression on campuses in Canada and abroad, identifying the main challenges, and suggesting ways that academic staff, students, and institutions can build inclusive learning environments without restricting free speech.

The conference will be held February 22 and 23 at the Radisson Admiral Hotel – Toronto Harbourfront. CUASA has the ability to send two members. We ask that any CUASA members interested in attending contact the CUASA Office by December 17. The persons selected will be contacted following the December 19 Council meeting.