The University is deeply disturbed about an incident that occurred during the Yorkfest Festival Village event on the Keele Campus on Sept. 16 hosted by the York Federation of Students (YFS).
The incident involved a physical altercation between an individual with no affiliation to the University and a York student, who was injured. The University is ensuring that the student is supported.
York University has policies and procedures to ensure that events on campus are safe for all community members. Guided by these policies and procedures, the University will be undertaking a thorough review of this matter. We ask for patience and cooperation while we undertake this review.
York’s Community Safety security staff are governed by strict policies, procedures and defined limitations. The use of physical force is permitted only under exceptional circumstances, and in such cases, Toronto Police Service must be contacted first.
The University does not permit private security on our campuses without prior approval. The University is now working closely with student groups and the YFS, and through relevant University offices, to ensure a thorough and impartial review. We understand that Toronto Police Service was called and is also investigating. Any complaints received regarding the matter will be reviewed under relevant University policies.
Protecting the safety and well-being of all community members is imperative in order for the University to serve its mission to promote learning through open and respectful dialogue. We appreciate and support the hard work of our student groups to foster student life and will continue to work with them as valuable campus partners.