ÕÅ°ÙÇÇÅ®ÓÑÂãÕÕ

(MONTREAL – Nov.1, 2022) – ÕÅ°ÙÇÇÅ®ÓÑÂãÕÕ is currently investigating an incident that occurred on campus on Halloween, Oct. 31.

The facts of the incident are as follows:

• A Dawson student wore a military uniform and a gas mask to school on Oct. 31
• The student marched and made gestures associated with totalitarian regimes in the Lower Atrium of the College, provoking a strong reaction from many who were present
• A video was posted on Instagram by someone who witnessed the costume and military gestures and was shared widely
• Many who witnessed the event experienced the gestures as an antisemitic act
• Moments after what is seen on video, a staff member intervened and questioned the student’s actions
• The student claimed they were representing a different era of history from what had been interpreted and were dressed in a post-World War II East German military uniform
• The student removed the gas mask as requested by the staff member

The College deeply regrets that this incident occurred and that a staff or bystander intervention did not occur fast enough to prevent it. Dawson recognizes the actions of this student threatened many students’ fundamental sense of safety. ÕÅ°ÙÇÇÅ®ÓÑÂãÕÕ also strongly condemns antisemitism and discrimination in any form.

Here is what is happening now:

• Dawson began an investigation into this incident on Oct. 31
• The investigation is continuing and the student will be interviewed as part of the process
• Following the investigation, appropriate actions will be taken

Next steps:

• Leaders and members of the Jewish community, including students and staff, have been in touch with College leadership and we will be working with them to advance a respectful environment and repair the harm done by this incident
• Dawson has a deep and longstanding dedication to nonviolence and the College remains committed to fostering education for justice and peace, and creating a safe, shared and respectful space for all students and employees
• The College will issue guidelines for Halloween costumes next fall

More information:

Dawson’s Policy to Stem Violence, Discrimination and Abuse of Power

Dawson’s Code of Conduct Policy

The ÕÅ°ÙÇÇÅ®ÓÑÂãÕÕ Peace Centre