The Student Coalition at the University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus (SUO) overturned a decision not to ratify the student conservative club after the backlash.
“After careful consideration, the board ratified the club and ensured that the decision was made in line with the values of equity, inclusion and respect for all students,” the union said.
“We understand the importance of fostering a diverse group of students who will contribute to a vibrant campus community.”
The email said some directors supported ratification and others were concerned about the club’s attitude on some issues.
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“Concerns have been raised about the political stance of the party that the club represents, not the club itself,” the email said. “Specifically, some directors were concerned that certain views relating to the parties, particularly the opinions on the Black and LGBTQ+ community, could make students in these groups feel excluded or unwelcome.”
Epoch Times was unable to independently verify emails.
The student union’s initial decision not to ratify conservative clubs has been criticized by other student groups and political leaders.
“There is clearly an essential hypocrisy in their support of our liberal clubs while refusing to allow conservative clubs to exist,” the social media post said.
“The freedom to express diverse opinions on our campus is extremely important.”
The club also said it is important to “be exposed and challenged” ideas that everyone agrees with.
BC Conservative leader John Rastad also placed emphasis on the issue.
Rastad said unions should not be allowed to determine which parties students are associated with which parties.
“UBCO students must be allowed to opt out of union membership fees for broken, awakened unions,” he wrote in the post.
“Open Dialog”
In response to the student union’s decision, the conservative club’s executive team said they look forward to a “meaningful” contribution to the UBCO campus.
The post said the club is committed to promoting a “respectful and inclusive environment.” He also said the club did not tolerate bullying or harassment.
They concluded that they were excited to engage in “constructive dialogue” and contribute to the campus’ diverse political landscape.
UBC Okanagan President Leslie Cormack said she is aware of the issue and said the student union is an independent organisation with the authority to make decisions on ratifying student clubs.
“These principles are made clear in the Okanagan Senate statement on academic freedom, which clearly states that UBC must be an open and inclusive forum where university members have the freedom to engage in full and unlimited consideration of opinions.”
Cormack stated that civic discourse and robust discussion are fundamental to the school’s academic mission and “the core of our role in Canadian society as a place of higher education and understanding of all perspectives.”
