Respect at Saint Mary's

A diverse group of employees at a board room table

Saint Mary’s University is committed to a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all. Students, employees, and leaders share responsibility for fostering a culture grounded in dignity, fairness, and mutual respect.

This commitment is supported by the: 

Respect is reflected in how we communicate, collaborate, and address concerns. It is an individual and collective responsibility. Your behaviour matters. Addressing issues early helps maintain a healthy and productive campus community.

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Respect means treating people in a way that is fair, safe, and considerate.

A respectful and inclusive environment is one where people:

  • Feel safe and supported
  • Are not afraid to speak up to ask questions or express a difference of opinion
  • Are treated with dignity and fairness
  • Do not feel they will be retaliated against if they express concerns
  • Respect different perspectives and experiences
  • Protect privacy and confidentiality
  • Contribute to a campus culture free of harassment and discrimination
  • Take responsibility for their actions

Strong cultures of respect support communication, well-being and collaboration.

Learn more:

Some behaviours are not acceptable at Saint Mary’s. These include:

Discrimination: Treating someone unfairly or limiting their opportunities based on a protected characteristic under the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act

Harassment: Unwelcome behaviour that harms someone’s dignity or work/study environment

Sexual harassment: Unwanted sexual comments, actions, or contact

Personal harassment: Behaviour that is insulting, demeaning, or intimidating

Bullying: Repeated, targeted behaviour that causes harm or distress

Cyberbullying: Harassment through email, social media, or other online tools

For more detailed information about definitions and how these harmful behaviours are addressed, please see our policy section:

Conflict can happen in any workplace or learning environment. Addressing concerns early through support, communication, and guidance can prevent escalation and lead to better outcomes.

I am experiencing or witnessing concerning behaviour

You can talk with someone confidentially, learn about your options, and consider the best ways to resolve the issue. It’s important to address issues early using constructive processes so the situation does not escalate. Options include:

  • Address the situation respectfully with the individual directly
  • Speak with your supervisor about the situation
  • Connect with the Respectful Workplace Advisor
  • Explore Safe Disclosure

Someone raised a concern about me

This can be difficult and upsetting; it’s important to respond in a thoughtful, respectful and informed way.

Review the Employee Code of Conduct and seek guidance from your supervisor or the Respectful Workplace Advisor to get confidential advice, learn what is expected and work toward a respectful resolution.

I want to understand my options

I’m helping someone else or managing a team

  • Listen and offer support
  • Encourage them to seek help
  • Help connect them to resources
  • Connect with the Respectful Workplace Advisor for guidance or capacity building options

The Respectful Workplace Advisor supports a respectful, safe and inclusive campus environment through prevention, guidance and conflict resolution. They offer a confidential and neutral space to talk about concerns, next steps and support your efforts to constructively address respectful workplace issues.

The Respectful Workplace Advisor can help you:

Understand your situation

  • Talk through what happened
  • Explain policies and options

Address concerns early

  • Help you prepare for difficult conversations
  • Offer communication tips
  • Support mediation between people

Navigate formal processes

  • Explain how complaints work
  • Guide you through next steps

Build a respectful workplace

  • Provide training and workshops
  • Support teams and leaders
  • Promote awareness and prevention

Additional EDIA training is available through People and Culture.

Contact the Respectful Workplace Advisor: respectfulworkplace@smu.ca

You can learn more and get support through these resources:

Related Policies

Additional Supports

The Respectful Workplace Advisor supports:

  • All employees of Saint Mary’s University (faculty and staff)
  • Leaders and teams
  • Students and volunteers with concerns involving a university employee

Need help now?

You are not alone. Confidential support is available:

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