“Sexual violence has no place in our post-secondary institutions. The proposed legislation announced yesterday is a testament to what can be achieved when the lived experiences of students are included and acted on,” said Debi Herrera Lira, Chairperson of the BC Federation of Students (BCFS). 

The BCFS welcomes the Government’s introduction of the Sexual Violence Policy Act and the accompanying Post-Secondary Sexual Violence Action Plan. 

Sexual violence continues to be a pervasive issue across post-secondary campuses, affecting students’ safety, well-being, and ability to fully participate in their education. While all BC institutions have had sexual-violence policies in place since 2017, students and campus communities have identified the need for stronger prevention measures, clearer accountability mechanisms, and survivor-centered processes. The proposed new Act and steps outlined in the Government’s action plan will go a long way to supporting students, staff, and faculty, who form the backbone of our academic communities across BC. 

“These changes reflect years of student advocacy and collaboration with government to make campuses safer and to ensure responses and processes are trauma-informed, and survivor centered. We look forward to ensuring this progress continues through meaningful implementation across every institution,” said Herrera Lira. 

Students have played a central role in shaping these improvements. Over the past several years, the BCFS and other partners have worked with the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, through consultations and committees, to strengthen these protections. The Sexual Violence Policy Act reflects that collaboration — closing gaps in the previous framework, improving reporting transparency, and ensuring trauma-informed and culturally appropriate approaches to prevention and response. 

Every student deserves to feel safe, supported, and respected in their learning environment. The BCFS commends the Government for its continued leadership and meaningful action to address sexualized violence on campus. The strengthened requirements for consultation, accountability, and transparency — alongside new standards that are inclusive of Indigenous approaches and prioritize survivor support — represent an important step forward for student safety in BC and meeting survivors’ needs. 

We look forward to continuing our collaboration with the Ministry and institutions as this new legislation and 12-point action plan are implemented, ensuring that student voices remain central in building campuses where safety, accountability, and consent culture are the standard — not the exception.