Media Release

For Immediate Release

February 9, 2009

University statement regarding Jose Ruba presentation

The University remains committed to academic freedom, diversity of opinion, and supports open debate in a forum that does not put the personal safety and rights of our community at risk. There is a balance that must be maintained among all of these.

Last Thursday, Feb. 5, protesters tried unsuccessfully to silence guest speaker, Jose Ruba, who had been invited by Saint Mary’s University students to make a presentation.

Protesters were asked to stop disrupting the event, but after more than an hour and a half, the presentation was relocated to a nearby location. Protesters were given the opportunity to ask questions and debate the speaker’s points, but they chose instead to shout slogans and prevented him from fully presenting.

Relocating the event, though regrettable, allowed the speaker to complete his presentation.

The University is currently reviewing the matter.

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For More Information:

Blake Patterson
Public Affairs Officer
Saint Mary's University, Public Affairs
(902) 420.5514
E-mail: blake.patterson@smu.ca
www.smu.ca