Last week, David Schimmelpenninck van der Oye, a professor at Brock University, made his return to teaching following a sexual harassment investigation which occurred in 2016. The investigation resulted in Schimmelpenninck van der Oye being disciplined, although he denied the allegations.
This is an appalling move by the university, but unsurprising, considering its administration tried to silence the same female student who came forth with these allegations three years ago. According to a report published by the CBC in 2016, the student stated she was told by the university to keep quiet about the allegations. Schimmelpenninck van der Oye’s return shows that the university is unwilling to implement severe measures to make sure that this type of incident doesn’t happen again.
This action also creates an uncomfortable environment for students who are survivors of sexual violence—one which may foster anxiety on campus. Canadian universities should consider this situation a reminder of the importance of taking a strong stance against sexual violence and a culture which encourages it.
It is important for universities to demonstrate that there is zero tolerance for this type of behaviour on campus.
Our generation prides itself in making sure people who are in positions of power—such as police, firefighters, athletes, and politicians—are accountable for their actions. Why should a professor be any different? What Schimmelpenninck allegedly did is inexcusable and students who take his classes in future semesters will have to deal with one difficult possibility: what if they are next?
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