Defunding the University of Regina Women’s Centre, UR Pride and the Regina chapter of Engineers without Borders? Ursu, Let’s Talk About Why That’s a Huge Mistake
So, the University of Regina Students' Union (URSU) Board wants to pull funding from the Women’s Centre, UR Pride and the Regina chapter of Engineering Without Borders. Let’s just state the obvious… this is a massive step backward.
"In my mind, this reads very much like a gendered attack. I don't know how else to take this otherwise," said Jill Arnott from the Women's Centre. Photo by KAYLE NEIS /Regina Leader-Post
We will preface by saying that we’re not going to pretend to know all the inner workings of student governance or even how they plan budgets and all of that, so this is purely from our perspective as members of the public AND (for Talitha, Marlene and Gwen) as alumni of the U of R.
We’re talking about taking away a safe haven for women, non-binary folks, and marginalized students—people who already face enough challenges without this added nonsense.
(And let’s also set the record straight—all three of these organizations are VITAL, but obviously our focus as a gendered organization is on the Women’s Centre because that’s the area we have the most expertise in).
OK. MOVING ON.
The U of R Women’s Centre isn’t just a space; it’s a lifeline. They provide free menstrual products (because, shocker, we can’t just stop menstruating if we’re broke), reproductive health supplies, mental health counselling, and programs on leadership and empowerment. These aren’t luxury perks; they’re essential services. And let’s not forget they also tackle gender-based violence and discrimination head-on. Without this support, many students would feel lost, isolated, and unsupported.
Women are the majority, but it’s far from equitable…
Sure, women make up a significant chunk of university students in Canada—around 55% of enrolments and nearly 60% of graduates. Sounds great, right? But don’t be fooled; we’re still playing catch-up in many ways. In STEM fields, for example, women account for just 34% of degree holders and a measly 23% of the workforce. Centers like the Women’s Centre help level the playing field by providing mentorship and breaking down barriers in male-dominated industries.
Now, let’s talk about immigrant women on campus. These students often face additional hurdles like language barriers, cultural adjustments, and outright discrimination. The Women’s Centre provides a safe, welcoming space where these women can get the resources they need to thrive—taking away that support? It’s not just unfair—it’s cruel.
So what happens if URSU defunds?
Here’s the reality: defunding the Women’s Centre doesn’t just hurt women; it hurts the entire campus community. Research shows that when women succeed, everyone benefits. Programs that promote gender equity lead to more inclusive environments, better academic outcomes, and stronger communities. Without the Women’s Centre, we’re risking all of that.
And let’s be honest: this isn’t just a university issue; it’s a societal one. Women’s centers exist because we still live in a world where gender inequality is very much a thing. Defunding these essential services sends a message that women and marginalized students aren’t worth investing in. And that? That’s not the Canada we want to live in.
Where do we go from here?
Cutting funding for the Women’s Centre? It’s not just a bad idea—it’s an insult to every student who relies on those services. URSU needs to reconsider–fast–because the future of gender equity on campus depends on it. Let’s do better. ✊
We’ve already sent a letter to URSU asking them to reconsider this decision and commit to more equitable practices. We believe in collaborative solutions, and we’re urging them to explore ways to support the Women’s Centre sustainably. But this isn’t just on us—it’s on all of us.
If you believe in supporting gender equity and empowering students, we encourage you to make your voice heard. Write to URSU, share your thoughts, and tell them how much spaces like the Women’s Centre, UR Pride and the Regina chapter of Engineers Without Borders matter. Change happens when communities come together, and together, we can make sure no one is left behind.