King’s students press faculty with questions during lockout Q-and-A

The King’s Student Union hosted a Q-and-A with faculty members from Dalhousie University and the University of King’s College on Sept. 9, giving students an opportunity to seek clarity on the ongoing lockout and class cancellations.

One student questioned why King’s suspended its classes despite professors at the university not being unionized. 

“That’s a question for Bill Lahey,” says Dal philosophy and classics professor Eli Diamond. 

Simon Kow, director of the King’s early modern studies program, added that while King’s faculty doesn’t speak with one voice, most stand in solidarity with the Dalhousie Faculty Association. 

Students also pressed about course credits, reading week and scheduling. Faculty said that completed coursework will count and warned that adjustments may be needed next year if delays continue.

Several professors stressed that the strike has significance beyond Dalhousie. 

“They’re not fighting for their jobs,” says Mélanie Frappier, director of the King’s history of science and technology program. “They’re fighting for much more.”

Professor Ajay Parasram says he “lost access to Brightspace while working,” adding that staff have had no access to materials since Dalhousie’s board of governors locked out almost 1,000 DFA members on Aug. 20.

Despite uncertainty, optimism remains. “Both sides are extremely motivated,” Parasram said. 

“Everyone is very optimistic right now that they’re close. I don’t think this will last very long,” said Diamond.