Post-Job Action Press Release

Download the Press Release HERE

To the University of Lethbridge community

On the evening of March 21st, 2022, the Faculty Association of the University of Lethbridge voted in favour of ratifying a new collective agreement with the Board of Governors. Today is the first day of classes since the beginning of February. Today marks the end of an almost 6-week historic strike and lockout at the University of Lethbridge.

These past 6 weeks have been incredibly difficult for students, for a multitude of reasons. Each student has had their academic success impacted by these past 6 weeks, and each student will have unique challenges facing them coming out of this labour disruption. It is for this reason that the ULSU has advocated for the most flexible plan for students upon returning to the semester. It will be everyone’s job to maintain flexibility, accommodations, and make sure that this semester is reasonable for students. 

Now it’s time to get back to doing what we’re here to do; learn. We’re back, and we’re eager to continue to learn together, grow together, and rebuild this institution, together. We look forward to striving towards a newfound sense of a positive campus community, and bridging the divides between one another. We urge not just our fellow students, but all members of the campus community to steward and rebuild a campus that we’re all proud to be a part of.

There are various policies in place to protect students from any circumstances that may disadvantage them in the coming weeks. There is now flexibility in place within the assessment of student learning policy, but the most important thing that you need to know is that changes to course outlines must not disadvantage the student. The ULSU has been advocating with administrators for the past 6 weeks on this matter and we are proud of the ground we have gained on this matter. We intend to communicate these direct outcomes in the coming days.

Additionally, we will be releasing an advocacy package to equip students with information about their rights as learners so they can advocate for themselves in the classroom. This advocacy package will also make clear what protections and accommodations are in place for students to have the autonomy in preserving their education this semester.

Students, we are here for you. If you have questions, comments, or concerns please contact us at ulsu.spring2022inquiries@gmail.com

Yours in solidarity,

Holly Kletke, President
Ryan Lindblad, Vice-President External
Mitch Nixon, Vice-President Student Affairs
Rebecca Parkkari, Vice-President Academic
Mark Serebryansky, Vice-President Operations and Finance