Have you heard about McGill’s Office for Mediation and Reporting (OMR)? This spring, the University launched the OMR, a new office dedicated to responding to formal reports of harassment, discrimination, and sexual violence. Below are some answers to questions you may have.
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- Who can access the OMR?
The OMR is available to all members of the University community (students, staff, and faculty).
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- What does the OMR do?
The work of the OMR is tied to two McGill policies: The Policy on Harassment and Discrimination and the Policy against Sexual Violence.
The OMR can:
- Offer non-judgmental confidential consultations on matters of harassment, discrimination, and sexual violence;
- Help you understand the relevant policies and processes (mediation/investigation);
- Give information on University resources to help you find additional supports, and make appropriate referrals;
- Provide investigation and mediation services when a formal report has been made; and
- Lead informational sessions on relevant policies and resources at McGill.
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- Why was the OMR created?
The OMR was created because of revisions made to McGill’s Policy on Harassment and Discrimination that were recommended by a Working Group after a broad and extensive consultation process that included representation from all faculty/staff associations and unions and student associations. McGill’s Senate and Board of Governors approved the revised Policy this spring.
In addition to the creation of the OMR, other key revisions made to the Policy include:
- The appointment of designated assessors who are employees or on contract with McGill and have expertise to conduct investigations.
- An extended scope to allow for confidential and/or third-party reporting.
- An extended scope to allow former students to file a report within the time delay.
- An extended time delay for filing a report (from 12 months to 24 months).
- The removal of the requirement that a reporting party must not concurrently file through another internal or external recourse.
- An extended definition of “Report” and “Reporter” to allow persons within research institutes and McGill-affiliated hospitals to file reports under the Policy.
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- How can I learn more?
If you or someone you know is dealing with harassment, discrimination, or sexual violence, then please reach out to the OMR:
- Book a Consultation to confidentially speak with an OMR staff member. (Please note that while working remotely due to COVID-19, consultations will be held virtually or by phone, at your preference).
- Visit the www.mcgill.ca/omr website to learn more about the OMR; reporting harassment, discrimination, or sexual violence; and additional resources.
- Email omr [at] mcgill.ca.
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