B.C. court dismisses challenge to university faculty association’s Gaza resolutions
B.C. Supreme Court Upholds SFU Faculty Association’s Resolutions on Israel and Divestment
VANCOUVER — In a recent decision, the B.C. Supreme Court has ruled in favor of the Simon Fraser University faculty association, stating that their resolutions condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza and calling for divestment from arms manufacturers were within their stated purposes.
Background
Last year, the faculty association passed resolutions that sparked controversy among its members. Some argued that taking stances on geopolitical issues was not in line with the association’s purpose. However, the court found that the resolutions were thoroughly debated by the membership and fell within the association’s mandate.
Court Ruling
The court dismissed claims that the faculty association should limit its actions geographically, noting that previous political resolutions had been passed without issue. Justice Francesca Marzari emphasized that the association’s purposes were broad and not as restrictive as argued by dissenting members.
Implications
This ruling sets a precedent for faculty associations to engage in political advocacy on a broader scale. The decision reinforces the importance of academic freedom and the ability of associations to take positions on global issues.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published on Sept. 2, 2025.
The Canadian Press
