Dear Students,
Earlier today, the results of the Strike Motion Referendum were ratified. The vote saw a turnout of 9,190 SSMU Members (36.3%), exceeding the 10% quorum requirement. Of those who voted, 67.5% voted “Yes,” 32.5% voted “No,” and 6.9% abstained (see results here).
Given that all steps for the ratification of a strike motion (per the SSMU Internal Regulations of Governance) have now been met, the strike motion has passed. The strike motion is solely calling for a one-day student strike during which students are asked not to attend classes. As per Article 10.5 of the Internal Regulations of Governance, student and/or professor participation in the strike is entirely voluntary. Students who choose to participate must keep in mind that every student is responsible for any academic consequences resulting from missing non-cancelled classes. According to the motion, absence from classes on October 7th, 2025, is the only activity formally included in the strike motion. However, there may be additional events taking place around McGill’s campus, as well as the city of Montreal, on this day. Please note: any such events that may occur around McGill’s campus are entirely independent of the Society’s strike motion.
The SSMU’s Constitution and Internal Regulations specifically allow for the right to strike, reflecting the values of freedom of expression and association. However, please note that any actions that violate the law, university regulations, or SSMU’s policies would be in violation of our governing documents and thus are not endorsed. This includes blocking of access to classrooms, preventing others from attending class, or any acts of harassment, threats, violence, or vandalism (additional information available here). The independent decisions of all students regarding participation, or lack thereof, in this strike must not be restricted and must be respected at all times.
If you experience or witness conduct of concern, please contact governance@ssmu.ca.
For general questions about the strike motion, you may reach out to steering@ssmu.ca.
We appreciate your continued engagement in our governance processes and ask that all students exercise their rights peacefully and respectfully.
Sincerely,
SSMU Secretariat Team
Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Parliamentarian
