University auditor finds no evidence of racism in review of disruption at women’s centre meeting

UR Pride and the University of Regina Women's Centre are facing uncertain futures following a proposal by the students union. (Donovan Maess / CTV News)

Progress has been made in the investigation looking into what occurred at the University of Regina Women’s Centre annual general meeting (AGM) on March 14.

In an email sent to students and staff on behalf of President Jeff Keshen, the university said a review has been completed by the Independent Office of Internal Audit.

The review determined several attendees visibly engaged in behaviors that could be considered disrespectful, intimidating or disruptive.

These actions will now be further assessed to determine if they violated any university policies or the student code of conduct, according to the university.

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The email continued, saying several allegations received were related to racial discrimination, physical harassment and privacy violations.

However, these allegations will not be move forward in the investigation, some due to lack of evidence, and others due to being “out of scope” of the auditor’s investigation.

Information regarding the abruptly cancelled AGM was gathered through email by the audit office.

The U of R said its top priority is to ensure no one is made to feel intimidated or threatened on campus.

On March 14, the Women’s Centre AGM was cut short due to disruptions from the audience.

It was adjourned and later held on April 16 with increased security measures.

At the time, the Women’s Centre was facing possible defunding by the University of Regina Students’ Union (URSU).

The disruption of the AGM was one incident during a tumultuous few months for URSU.

• University of Regina terminates fee collection agreement with students’ union

On April 2, the university terminated its fee collection agreement with the student’s union - effectively cutting off the majority of its funding.

URSU has said it hopes to negotiate with the university so it can continue operations after the decision comes into effect in late August.