Faculty and staff gathered at Western University on Friday to voice concern over job reductions in the arts and humanities. The noon hour protest drew dozens of people who marched across campus calling for job security and more support for academic workers.
Union representatives said the demonstration was meant to draw attention to recent staff reductions and growing workloads in non-science departments. Speakers at the rally urged the university to protect programs that focus on culture, language and creative study, saying they are essential to a well-rounded education.
Several students joined the protest in solidarity with staff, expressing concern that financial decisions could limit future opportunities for study in the arts.
Western University said it is reviewing how services are organized and continues to balance budgets while maintaining academic quality. The school, one of Canada’s largest research institutions, employs thousands of full-time and part-time faculty and staff throughout the year.
Organizers said the protest was peaceful and intended to start a wider conversation about the importance of stable employment and public investment in education.
