Religion is a private and individual matter. A moment of silence or reflection is an excellent option for those who wish to pray or give thanks. One must understand this is not about removing anything but offering inclusivity to all beliefs. Frankly, if one does not have a spiritual or religious belief that is one's right under the Charter. Christianity's or rather any religious institution has no place in the school unless it is for study. Since schools are funded by tax dollars and religious groups do no pay taxes they have no place. Religious instruction should take place in the home or at the religious institute of choice.
R Sasso - 12 years ago
A new low has been achieved in the name of higher education. Shame on the weak-kneed decision makers at the University of Windsor! Silencing public references to God/a god-source at Convocation, to the delight of an atheist-minded few is an insult to past, present and future U. of W. graduates, supporters and community benefactors of the university. Replacing the traditional, non-denominational invocation with personal reflection belies the ability of graduate learners to discern and deal with the public beliefs and faith professions of others. God-forbid (oops!) their capacity for religious tolerance exceeds that of senior administrators at the University of Windsor.
What next? Will the "O Canada" be replaced by a moment of non-descript humming, since "God's" providence is invoked in our national anthem? Further down Huron (Church) Road, will the "saint" in St. Clair College be removed at our local community college?
Windsor has been blessed with a tolerant, multiculturally diverse population who generally seem more appreciative, respectful and inclusive of diversity than to incite efforts to stifle local multi-faith traditions or insulting the anthem that embodies our eclectic community.
The disrespectful actions of local, amoral decision-makers at the University of Windsor and the derisive non-faith proponents should be censured by all leaders and congregations in our historic, multi-faith community. Perhaps the faithless naysayers can turn up their noses and earphones while those who choose to hear the invocation may also choose to listen and perhaps be moved in that towards a world of increasing "goodness, discipline and knowledge".
Peter - 12 years ago
This scares me. Because the only thing stopping all Christians from killing us all is their fear of their god. We take away their religion, they WILL go on another Crusade and kill us.
Randy - 12 years ago
This is a wonderful step for U of W, and surprisingly long overdue. Divisive practices like these have no place at formal educational events, which must serve people of multiple belief systems.
You can tell from the whining and personal attacks in comments that certain people expect to be treated better than everyone else, and actually consider it discriminatory when they get treated simply the same. Can you imagine the arrogance it takes to think that way?
I'm glad I live in a country where progress happens, in spite of these privilege-demanding people.
Jon - 12 years ago
Sad....The great university with a great law program. I guess we should just dismantle that law program actually. Because we know that the foundational principles of all law is the 10 commandments. They are even carved in granite at the supreme court of the US.
Diane L - 12 years ago
How disappointing to even think about changing our constitution and freedom of Religion our Country was founded on. I am a very proud Canadian, and this is very sad to hear. First Obama, now here in our own city.
Diane L - 12 years ago
How disappointing to even think about changing our constitution and freedom of Religion our Country was founded on. I am a very proud Canadian, and this is very sad to hear. First Obama, now here in our own city.
Kate - 12 years ago
I would and do trust atheists. In fact, I would trust an atheist or angry badger with my children more so I would with a Catholic. We all know how much they "love" children. Especially boys.
I used to the Protestant, but now am Jewish.
Dan - 12 years ago
As a christian, we do not have the right to impose our beliefs and customs on people. People have to come to the path in their own way and not be forced to it. The U is not a private christian institution. They accept government funding and as such they should not be imposing a bias towards any religon. This decision is the right one. I am surprised that it has taken this long.
Jon - 12 years ago
As we've seen, Shawna's comments..."the principles of diversity, inclusion, and tolerance" are all ok and on display as long you don't want to apply that to people who believe in God or are Christians. Sad but the truth is a university environment is a breeding ground for young people who seem to know it all. Started in the 60's...now those hippies are those kid's professors. Sad...Also, would you want an employee, babay sitter, neighbour, daughter in law that were all Atheists? No belief system? Now way in hell...
Dave Smith - 12 years ago
Most, no..ALL Christians are attracted to young boys. They are incapable of being moral without fear of an old man living int he clouds. They were born with a brain deficit that makes them unable to be kind to others without fear to motivate them. They all also believe that having sex with little boys brings them closer to god.
Chad Durocher - 12 years ago
Assumption College does not have "christian" roots, but rather roman catholic roots. In the early 1900's there was no "christian nation" for the simple reason that the "christians" were afraid of one another. I'm sure in 1950 some men were mad they decided to let women enroll as students, as many catholics were probably mad 1n 1957 when the U decided to affiliate with Canterbury College (Anglican) or later in the 60's with the Anglican church. Since those days, catholic churches have been dwindling in numbers while mosques, synagogues, gurdwaras, kingdom halls, lds and buddist churches, even agnostic/atheist groups have been steadily growing in numbers. Presently, the U of W is as diverse as anyone could imagine and expanding across Windsor. The evolution of the university has been ongoing since the beginning, and this change is made to make all of the graduates feel accepted and honoured, and proud of their accomplishments, together during the convocation ceremony.
Jon - 12 years ago
Such a beautiful girl. Too bad she will spend her life fighting something that apparently doesn't even exsist. Most, let me change that, all athiests simply do not want to follow a moral code requested by God. That is the real reason they reject faith. They would rather live their own lives free of any restrictions. Well have at it, in the end it will be your downfall.
The student members of the Windsor/Essex County Atheist Society and I would like to express our gratitude for this affirmation of the principles of diversity, inclusion, and tolerance. This shows plainly the commitment the University of Windsor makes to cultivating the virtue, discipline and knowledge of its students. When students are allowed to worship with their conscience, we all benefit. Special thanks to Kaye Johnson and others who advocated for this change. We would like to thank the author of the introduction to the moment of silence for composing a truly beautiful and meaningful statement. It will serve as a wonderful garland to the ceremony, enriching it for everyone.
It can be difficult to engage in re-evaluating and changing long standing traditions, but it is clearer than ever that this commitment to diversity from the university administration will bring about a wonderful addition to an already meaningful ceremony. With our ever-changing, diverse student population, it is imperative that the University of Windsor continue its dedication to celebrating diversity.
The moment of reflection is inclusive of everyone. During the moment of reflection, people can make their own decision as to whether they want to pray, reflect, think about people who helped them along the way, and/or remember their experiences at the University of Windsor. This allows the students to examine the many factors that have helped them in their achievement and consider them in what is a very personal and very meaningful way.
I personally am glad that I will be able to stand with pride and say with all my fellow students, "Yes! I went to Windsor!" I look forward to attending convocation, where we may all join together in honouring the years of hard work that have brought us together. What will I do during the moment of reflection? I will think about the wonderful professors, teaching assistants, and university staff who helped me along the way. I will think about my family. I will think about my classmates and friends. I will think about the University of Windsor, which has been my home since 2007. I am looking forward to the next four years of my educational experience at the University of Windsor.
Sincerely,
Shawna Scott and the 170+ members of the Windsor/Essex County Atheist Society
Meg - 12 years ago
As a Canadian born non Christian I think this is awesome. One more step away from being like some middle Eastern "be Muslim or die" nations
Tim Hickey - 12 years ago
I find it interesting that in a country where our freedoms were framed by a Constitution, and a committment to Judeo Christian Values which were and still are the framework for a country set apart in the world, that honouring the Source of our Freedoms becomes offensive to a few, and we adjust our lives accordingly!
A Charter of Rights that was intent on preventing a Tyranny of the Majority in this great country we call Canada, essentially is denying the Will of a Real Majority of Canadians! Whilst the Charter gives protection to and voice for minorities, until such a time as a Real Majority of Canadians are convinced by the few, that it would be in the better interests or the greater good of Canada to change the traditions of our country in recognizing the Supremacy of God, it would serve us well to maintain the traditions of this nation!
Religion is a private and individual matter. A moment of silence or reflection is an excellent option for those who wish to pray or give thanks. One must understand this is not about removing anything but offering inclusivity to all beliefs. Frankly, if one does not have a spiritual or religious belief that is one's right under the Charter. Christianity's or rather any religious institution has no place in the school unless it is for study. Since schools are funded by tax dollars and religious groups do no pay taxes they have no place. Religious instruction should take place in the home or at the religious institute of choice.
A new low has been achieved in the name of higher education. Shame on the weak-kneed decision makers at the University of Windsor! Silencing public references to God/a god-source at Convocation, to the delight of an atheist-minded few is an insult to past, present and future U. of W. graduates, supporters and community benefactors of the university. Replacing the traditional, non-denominational invocation with personal reflection belies the ability of graduate learners to discern and deal with the public beliefs and faith professions of others. God-forbid (oops!) their capacity for religious tolerance exceeds that of senior administrators at the University of Windsor.
What next? Will the "O Canada" be replaced by a moment of non-descript humming, since "God's" providence is invoked in our national anthem? Further down Huron (Church) Road, will the "saint" in St. Clair College be removed at our local community college?
Windsor has been blessed with a tolerant, multiculturally diverse population who generally seem more appreciative, respectful and inclusive of diversity than to incite efforts to stifle local multi-faith traditions or insulting the anthem that embodies our eclectic community.
The disrespectful actions of local, amoral decision-makers at the University of Windsor and the derisive non-faith proponents should be censured by all leaders and congregations in our historic, multi-faith community. Perhaps the faithless naysayers can turn up their noses and earphones while those who choose to hear the invocation may also choose to listen and perhaps be moved in that towards a world of increasing "goodness, discipline and knowledge".
This scares me. Because the only thing stopping all Christians from killing us all is their fear of their god. We take away their religion, they WILL go on another Crusade and kill us.
This is a wonderful step for U of W, and surprisingly long overdue. Divisive practices like these have no place at formal educational events, which must serve people of multiple belief systems.
You can tell from the whining and personal attacks in comments that certain people expect to be treated better than everyone else, and actually consider it discriminatory when they get treated simply the same. Can you imagine the arrogance it takes to think that way?
I'm glad I live in a country where progress happens, in spite of these privilege-demanding people.
Sad....The great university with a great law program. I guess we should just dismantle that law program actually. Because we know that the foundational principles of all law is the 10 commandments. They are even carved in granite at the supreme court of the US.
How disappointing to even think about changing our constitution and freedom of Religion our Country was founded on. I am a very proud Canadian, and this is very sad to hear. First Obama, now here in our own city.
How disappointing to even think about changing our constitution and freedom of Religion our Country was founded on. I am a very proud Canadian, and this is very sad to hear. First Obama, now here in our own city.
I would and do trust atheists. In fact, I would trust an atheist or angry badger with my children more so I would with a Catholic. We all know how much they "love" children. Especially boys.
I used to the Protestant, but now am Jewish.
As a christian, we do not have the right to impose our beliefs and customs on people. People have to come to the path in their own way and not be forced to it. The U is not a private christian institution. They accept government funding and as such they should not be imposing a bias towards any religon. This decision is the right one. I am surprised that it has taken this long.
As we've seen, Shawna's comments..."the principles of diversity, inclusion, and tolerance" are all ok and on display as long you don't want to apply that to people who believe in God or are Christians. Sad but the truth is a university environment is a breeding ground for young people who seem to know it all. Started in the 60's...now those hippies are those kid's professors. Sad...Also, would you want an employee, babay sitter, neighbour, daughter in law that were all Atheists? No belief system? Now way in hell...
Most, no..ALL Christians are attracted to young boys. They are incapable of being moral without fear of an old man living int he clouds. They were born with a brain deficit that makes them unable to be kind to others without fear to motivate them. They all also believe that having sex with little boys brings them closer to god.
Assumption College does not have "christian" roots, but rather roman catholic roots. In the early 1900's there was no "christian nation" for the simple reason that the "christians" were afraid of one another. I'm sure in 1950 some men were mad they decided to let women enroll as students, as many catholics were probably mad 1n 1957 when the U decided to affiliate with Canterbury College (Anglican) or later in the 60's with the Anglican church. Since those days, catholic churches have been dwindling in numbers while mosques, synagogues, gurdwaras, kingdom halls, lds and buddist churches, even agnostic/atheist groups have been steadily growing in numbers. Presently, the U of W is as diverse as anyone could imagine and expanding across Windsor. The evolution of the university has been ongoing since the beginning, and this change is made to make all of the graduates feel accepted and honoured, and proud of their accomplishments, together during the convocation ceremony.
Such a beautiful girl. Too bad she will spend her life fighting something that apparently doesn't even exsist. Most, let me change that, all athiests simply do not want to follow a moral code requested by God. That is the real reason they reject faith. They would rather live their own lives free of any restrictions. Well have at it, in the end it will be your downfall.
The student members of the Windsor/Essex County Atheist Society and I would like to express our gratitude for this affirmation of the principles of diversity, inclusion, and tolerance. This shows plainly the commitment the University of Windsor makes to cultivating the virtue, discipline and knowledge of its students. When students are allowed to worship with their conscience, we all benefit. Special thanks to Kaye Johnson and others who advocated for this change. We would like to thank the author of the introduction to the moment of silence for composing a truly beautiful and meaningful statement. It will serve as a wonderful garland to the ceremony, enriching it for everyone.
It can be difficult to engage in re-evaluating and changing long standing traditions, but it is clearer than ever that this commitment to diversity from the university administration will bring about a wonderful addition to an already meaningful ceremony. With our ever-changing, diverse student population, it is imperative that the University of Windsor continue its dedication to celebrating diversity.
The moment of reflection is inclusive of everyone. During the moment of reflection, people can make their own decision as to whether they want to pray, reflect, think about people who helped them along the way, and/or remember their experiences at the University of Windsor. This allows the students to examine the many factors that have helped them in their achievement and consider them in what is a very personal and very meaningful way.
I personally am glad that I will be able to stand with pride and say with all my fellow students, "Yes! I went to Windsor!" I look forward to attending convocation, where we may all join together in honouring the years of hard work that have brought us together. What will I do during the moment of reflection? I will think about the wonderful professors, teaching assistants, and university staff who helped me along the way. I will think about my family. I will think about my classmates and friends. I will think about the University of Windsor, which has been my home since 2007. I am looking forward to the next four years of my educational experience at the University of Windsor.
Sincerely,
Shawna Scott and the 170+ members of the Windsor/Essex County Atheist Society
As a Canadian born non Christian I think this is awesome. One more step away from being like some middle Eastern "be Muslim or die" nations
I find it interesting that in a country where our freedoms were framed by a Constitution, and a committment to Judeo Christian Values which were and still are the framework for a country set apart in the world, that honouring the Source of our Freedoms becomes offensive to a few, and we adjust our lives accordingly!
A Charter of Rights that was intent on preventing a Tyranny of the Majority in this great country we call Canada, essentially is denying the Will of a Real Majority of Canadians! Whilst the Charter gives protection to and voice for minorities, until such a time as a Real Majority of Canadians are convinced by the few, that it would be in the better interests or the greater good of Canada to change the traditions of our country in recognizing the Supremacy of God, it would serve us well to maintain the traditions of this nation!
When the LIGHT goes out?
It is a sad day for Canada!