To all SSMU members and the entire McGill community,
It has come to the attention of the SSMU that concerning and damaging information has been circulating about the strike. In particular, we have learned that yesterday, there was a petition circulating online which asks students to report on professors who choose to hold classes during the strike. The SSMU firmly rejects this message, as well as any others that promote actions contrary to a peaceful strike.
The SSMU and the strike organizers are committed to peaceful, lawful and respectful activities during this strike period. We remain steadfast to our commitment to uphold the will of the student body, collective action, and meaningful discourse. We also note that this strike was ratified by the students in a democratic process, and the burden for passing a strike motion according to our Constitution is higher than any other process. It is our duty and our privilege to support student voices on anything that receives this level of support, and that is passed following these processes.
The SSMU and the strike organizers, however, are committed to following all rules and regulations with regard to the strike. We would like to reiterate that striking is voluntary, and students and professors are under no obligation to participate. While we support and encourage participation, we strongly denounce any acts or communications that are meant to intimidate others, including those who choose not to participate. Any actor who attempts to threaten or pressure students or faculty into participating, either through physical intimidation, online harassment campaigns, or otherwise, does not speak for the SSMU, and we firmly condemn such actions. We call on everyone to participate in this strike in a way that promotes open dialogue and that allows for your voices to be heard while following all laws and obligations in the Code of Student Conduct and Disciplinary Procedures.
If you are in any doubt about messaging, especially online, please know that information published on official SSMU channels will be correct. Please feel free to reach out to any of us should you have any concerns.
The SSMU
