Sexual violence

President's message

All members of the Sheridan community have a right to study, live and work in an environment that is free from any form of sexual violence.

Sheridan’s Sexual Violence Policy and Sexual Violence Procedure aim to better support victims/survivors by making information easier to find, making the reporting process clearer, and detailing what supports are available. They ensure that individuals who make complaints are believed and their rights are protected. They also hold those who have committed an act of sexual violence accountable.

I urge all members of the Sheridan community to review the Sexual Violence Policy and its Procedure. We all have a role to play in building and maintaining a culture that is intolerant of violence, abuse and assault and that promotes consent and respect.

Janet Morrison
President and Vice Chancellor

What is sexual violence?

Sexual violence is any act targeting a person's sexuality, gender identity, or gender expression, whether the act is physical or psychological in nature, that is committed, threatened, or attempted against a person without the person’s consent.

If you have been affected by sexual violence, it's never your fault. Sheridan is committed to challenging and preventing sexual violence and creating a safe space for anyone in the Sheridan community who has been affected by sexual violence. If you've experienced or witnessed sexual violence on or off campus, or prior to your arrival at Sheridan, there are resources on campus and in the community to support you. We're here to help.

Understanding Consent

Consent is the act of willingly agreeing to engage in specific sexual behaviour and requires that a person is able to freely express “yes”. This means that there must always be an understandable exchange of affirmative words. Along with understanding this definition, please see the following infographic about healthy and unhealthy relationships as well as more information about consent.

Additional Information

• Centre for Equity and Inclusion
• Sexual Violence Annual Report 2023–2024
• Sexual Violence Policy
• Sexual Violence Procedure 

Current Sheridan faculty, staff and students are encouraged to visit the Sexual Violence page on Sheridan Central for additional information and resources, or contact the Sexual Violence Response Specialist at 905-845-9430 ext. 8430 or svrs@sheridancollege.ca.