Dear executive members of associations participating in Congress 2024,
Over the past ten days, the McGill University campus has seen an ongoing strike by the Association of McGill Professors of Law (AMPL), and a pro-Palestinian encampment.
We understand that many of you are concerned about these situations and the political issues at stake, as well as what this means for the upcoming Congress at McGill. We are prepared to provide clarification on the Federation's position and the circumstances under which Congress can proceed.
The Federation’s mission is to bring together a network of universities, colleges, and scholarly associations, and to promote the value of research and education in the humanities and social sciences. Our advocacy focuses on highlighting to policymakers at the federal level the significant contributions of our scholars towards addressing complex issues of our time.
We do not act as an intermediary or spokesperson on matters beyond the scope of this mission.
Congress has been around for 93 years and its role in facilitating critical, and often challenging conversations cannot be understated. We are committed to civil discourse, peace and respect in that dialogue. There will never be a time that Congress convenes in a context free from challenges, and it is precisely during times like these that academics must come together and demonstrate the valuable work that we do. There is no better platform than Congress to accomplish this.
As a Federation, we hold a responsibility towards our community to ensure the sustainability of Congress for the future of our disciplines. Congress takes years to organize. We have financial commitments with various parties, contractual obligations with the host institution, and logistics imperatives that make it impossible for us to pivot six weeks out.
With respect to academic freedom, freedom of association, and freedom to strike, associations are free to take political stands and withdraw their participation from Congress 2024 if they choose to do so. Likewise, registered members of associations are free to decide not to attend their conference at McGill. Please refer to the Congress cancellation policy for associations and for members of associations which will apply in these cases.
We understand the complexity of the situation and appreciate the weighty decisions that you and your members are facing. We therefore invite you to a special Member Forum for associations’ executives where we will hear your concerns and provide the Federation’s perspective. The meeting will take place on Thursday, May 9 at 12:00 ET. A meeting invitation will follow shortly.
We appreciate your support and your continued membership, and we thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
Mike DeGagné
Interim Chief Administrator
Federation for the Humanities and Social Sciences