Strike against the mandatory Quebec history course

Cet article de nos archives n'a pas été traduit en français.

Dear Vanier College students.

I would like to briefly explain the situation regarding the Quebec history course and the events leading to the student boycott of classes and its outcome.
The Quebec provincial government has decided that all college students will have to take a mandatory Quebec history course. This new course will replace one of the two complementary courses while making the second one an extra credit course (no longer mandatory) starting in the fall semester of 2014. Before the 1993 reform, students had access to four complementary courses. After this modification, complementary courses in CÉGEP will be down to one. At the moment, some 3-year programs only have one complementary course. The Vanier College board of directors, and academic council along with the VCSA and VCTA have adopted a motion against the course as it takes away the opportunity to explore our interests through taking introductory courses outside of our program of study and puts many teachers at risk of losing their jobs.

At our last general assembly, which is the highest governing body of the VCSA, a motion was unanimously adopted to boycott classes and peacefully demonstrate against this change in curriculum.

A demonstration will be held on April 3, 2014. In order for students to not having to choose between protesting the course and to attend their classes, classes will only be canceled if there are approximately 150 students in front of the main entrance by 8 a.m. If classes are canceled, the semester will be extended by one more day (it is already extended by one day due to the provincial elections). An agreement has been made between the VCSA and Vanier College in case classes are canceled to ensure a peaceful and respectful demonstration and that college services will be provided as usual.

I encourage all Vanier College students to take part in this demonstration and exercise their right to direct democracy. Students should show solidarity and strength in numbers. Please do not consider this as a day off if classes are canceled.

Regards,
OmarRiaz
President
VCSA