In the year and a half since the release of the York University Security Services Review report in April 2023, a suite of committees has been actively working to scope, plan for and implement recommendations across the University to make it a safer space for all.
The review, conducted by an internal expert panel, outlined a set of recommendations to help transition York to a community-centric model for safety services that is equitable, bias-free, transparent, collaborative, representative and organizationally aligned. As the Community Safety Department moves into the second year of implementing these recommendations, it will be building on its foundation and initiating new projects.
"As we continue to strengthen our commitment to creating a safe, inclusive and supportive environment, our work in Community Safety aims to reflect a holistic approach that incorporates social and mental health expertise, promotes equity and prioritizes trust-building across all segments of our diverse community," says Orville Wallace, executive director of the Community Safety Department. "By fostering meaningful relationships and integrating these values into every aspect of our operations, we are not only enhancing safety but also reinforcing our dedication to the well-being and sense of belonging of every individual at York."
Renaming efforts
As a first step in exploring the renaming of the Security Services unit to better align with the community-centric enhanced safety model proposed in the review, the department has met with Labour Relations. Changing the title of frontline security staff from “security official” to something more reflective of the community safety orientation of their roles is also being considered. These decisions will involve extensive consultation with the wider University community through a naming campaign, allowing community members to vote on the options provided. This will commence in January 2025.
Addressing homelessness
Another priority area has been addressing homelessness. The Community Safety Department has developed a comprehensive approach that includes both short- and long-term strategies. In the short term, the department has collaborated with external partners, such as the Agincourt Community Services Association and the City of Toronto, to provide emergency kits, essential items, and access to medical and mental health services.
The long-term plan focuses on mental health and well-being initiatives, implementation and evaluation strategies, as well as increased transparency in York’s Security Services activities to ensure community awareness and understanding of security activity.
The department will also be implementing strategies and utilizing in-house resources to enhance collaboration with external agencies, aiming to strengthen frontline expertise in addressing the challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness.
Committing to anti-racism
The Community Safety Department’s commitment to anti-racism continues, with plans to update all relevant practices and standard operating procedures to incorporate anti-racial profiling elements. A race-identity data collection system is being developed to enhance transparency in the department’s service delivery.
Training and capacity building is another key focus area for the coming year, with plans to establish dedicated resources within the department to help implement the anti-racism, equity, diversity, inclusion and decolonization training strategy.
The department is also creating a report structure for hate activity incidents and reviewing its communication and information sharing practices through an anti-racism and equity lens.
Reducing police involvement
According to the research conducted for the Security Services Review, the addition of security staff with special constable powers could significantly reduce police involvement at York. The Community Safety Department will be exploring this further through working groups comprised of students, staff and faculty.
Increasing community engagement
Community engagement has been at the heart of these transformation efforts. York University’s Community Safety Department has organized town halls, road shows with faculty and student groups, and panel discussions. An engagement plan has also been developed, incorporating networking opportunities, focus groups and roundtable discussions. These efforts will ensure an open dialogue is maintained with the community, and that the changes made reflect their needs and concerns.
"Community involvement is at the heart of some our safety initiatives for 2025," says Dennis Edwards, director of community safety operations. "We believe that by collaborating with York U community members, we can better understand their needs and concerns, leading to a more customer service approach and effective safety measures."
Future outlook
This two-year journey represents a significant shift in the Community Safety Department’s approach to campus security. By prioritizing inclusivity, community engagement and systemic change, the department is committing to building a security service that genuinely serves and represents all members of the diverse community it serves.
To learn more about the Security Services Review, including other recommendations to be implemented, visit the Community Safety website.