Sexual violence respondent

Our office can help you to understand what the Sexual Violence Policy means and how it impacts you. We can also assist you in arranging academic considerations that you may require during the process. We typically do not accompany you to any meetings (you are able to identify and bring an alternate support person) but we can connect you with resources during the process (for example, counselling).

Under TMU’s Sexual Violence Policy, students, staff and faculty can make a report against another TMU community member for sexual or gender-based violence. The person making the report is referred to as the complainant. They file their report with TMU’s Human Rights Services, which is the office responsible for the investigation process. Human Rights Services does not advocate for any individual or group.

You can expect a timely, transparent and fair process. You will be advised of your rights and responsibilities, will be kept informed about the investigation and outcome, and will receive regular updates including estimated timeframes and any delays.

You also have the right to a support person throughout the process. Our office can provide this support or you may choose to identify an alternate to accompany you to meetings. This could include a friend, family member, legal representative, etc.

You will know the allegations that have been made against you and the evidence, and you will be given the opportunity to answer questions prior to a decision being made. You will receive notice of the investigation and decision-making process. You may be asked to appear in-person before the investigator and decision maker to answer and ask questions with respect to the evidence.

All information related to cases of sexual violence will be kept confidential. However, there may be circumstances where university employees require information to carry out their authorized duties, e.g. conduct an investigation, make or implement a decision or interim measures, etc. You are expected to keep the details of any case confidential, outside your circle of support, in order to ensure the integrity of the investigation and decision making process.

TMU protects personal information and handles records in accordance with its policies, the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, the Personal Health Information Protection Act, and the provisions of applicable employee collective agreements.

In appropriate circumstances, Human Right Services may follow-up with the Complainant and you to determine if you are both willing to voluntarily participate in an alternative resolution process. At any stage during alternative resolution, the complainant may indicate that they would like to move their complaint to an investigation and adjudication process.

For more information regarding the Alternative Resolution process, please view the Sexual Violence policy.