Update on government proposal for charter of values

These days there is considerable public conversation under way regarding a proposal for a charter of values advanced by the Government of Quebec.

Amidst that conversation, I would like to reassure the Concordia community of our deepest respect for diversity, inclusion and freedom of thought. 

Concordia is a very diverse community, and that is a great strength. It is also the future of our university. We have many students, staff and faculty members from various faith communities, and we are learning and working together harmoniously. 

We have more than 46,000 students from more than 150 countries. This rich cultural diversity fosters a dynamic learning environment that is vital for the exchange of ideas, the creation of knowledge and other research, and innovation in higher education.

In my view, it is too soon to be certain as to what exactly will be included in the legislation, which has not yet been tabled. 

But it is never too soon to affirm our respect for the diversity of our community, which has evolved over many decades from Loyola and Sir George Williams into a great institution of dedicated faculty and staff who are uniquely able to prepare our students for a global world.

In the coming days, I will be consulting with the university’s governing bodies regarding the government's proposal.

I also encourage you to participate as well in the government’s public consultation process.

Alan Shepard
President