U of Manitoba seeks feedback on sexual harassment policy

The University of Manitoba is asking students and staff for feedback on its sexual harassment and work environment policies after sexual harassment allegations against a professor came to light this week.

University president David Barnard wrote a message Friday, emailed to all students and staff and posted on the university's website, regarding the U of M's behavioural policies.

On Wednesday, a CBC I-Team investigation revealedthat jazz professor Steve Kirby had left the universityafter an internal investigation reportfound he repeatedly made inappropriate sexual comments and unwanted sexual contact with a female student.

• CBC INVESTIGATES:Female students allege sexual misconduct against former U of Manitoba jazz prof Steve Kirby

The student was critical of the universityand said she was "angry" over how the internal investigation into her allegations was handled, sayingit didn't do enough to create a safe environment for female students.

She is part of a group of current and former students who made allegations of sexual misconduct against Kirbyin February.

U of M executive director of public affairs John Danakas said the messagereferences both the university's Respectful Work and Learning Environment Policy and its Sexual Assault Policy

Barnard wroteabout the importance of building a culture of consent, respect, trust and inclusivityin the message.

"As has occurred recently, the effectiveness of our policies will attract scrutiny," Barnard wrote, adding that he could not speak to specific cases.

"Feedback from individuals involved directly in incidents, especially feedback from complainants, is always valued and will inform revisions, which will be undertaken every three years," he wrote.

The policies were revised in 2016 and will be revised again in 2019, Danakas said via email, adding that Barnard sent the message "to add perspective to current conversations."

Student alleges U of M mishandled sexual harassment complaint against jazz prof Steve Kirby

7 years ago

Duration 3:29

A former University of Manitoba jazz student is angry with the way the university handled an internal investigation into Prof. Steve Kirby's conduct, and says it didn't do enough to create a safe environment for female students.

Barnard ended the message by stating that during Homecoming Week celebrations, it's also important to "remind ourselves of our pledge to build a community together ... assured of our safety, inclusion and respect."

• CBC INVESTIGATES:Berklee College puts Steve Kirby on leave after allegations of sexual harassment at U of Manitoba

On Thursday, the U.S. college Kirby now works for said he has been placed on leave while it conducts its own investigation.

CBC has not been able to reach Kirby for comment.