Nipissing University centre closes following investigation into social media post

Nipissing University says it’s saddened by the decision to permanently close the student-led The Equity Centre following the completion of a third-party, independent investigation.

Nipissing University says it’s saddened by the decision to permanently close the student-led The Equity Centre following the completion of a third-party, independent investigation.

The centre, which opened in 2016 at the university’s main campus, was considered a safe space for students who wanted to help organize campaigns to raise awareness of equity issues within diverse communities.

The centre decided to close following the investigation.

"We’re working with a very fragile group of students that have often experienced a lot of oppression and discrimination," said Aidan Haghgoo, the Students of Colour United Program coordinator.

The centre’s Facebook page describes it as an "advocate on behalf of students and promote allyship that is open to everyone but prioritizes working with marginalized groups on campus."

"Sometimes stepping away, even though it’s the hardest thing to do, is going to make the most impact," Haghgoo told reporters.

"There’s a lot of equity-deserving students on campus. It’s incredibly challenging to provide supports for students in the face of oppression."