Project L.E.A.R.N. backlash

Students are upset with London Police after officers began door-todoor visits in student-heavy neighbourhoods nearly five weeks ago; actions that are linked to the annual Project L.E.A.R.N. initiative in September.

The London Free Press was told by numerous students that police officers were asking for personal information like names and phone numbers — even parents' addresses.

Christina Zuback, a Fanshawe student, told the Free Press that that police wanted to keep track of who lives in what house. “It was kind of ridiculous,” she said. “But I didn't really know how to say no to them, or what they'd say if I said no.”

Police Chief Brad Duncan defended the actions saying the information is useful, and is meant to “establish a relationship with police and a sense of accountability in neighbourhoods known for loud, wild parties and increasing vandalism,” as reported by the Free Press.

However, the actions have been scrutinized by students and members of the community like Susan Toth, a lawyer and Western University instructor who feels the actions violates the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

“When I heard about the tactics that were being used during Project L.E.A.R.N., I was absolutely appalled,” Toth said.

She wrote an open letter to the police questioning the collection of personal information and that “the targeting of student neighbourhoods is a form of profiling,” as reported by CTV London. The letter also calls for Duncan's resignation.

Duncan released a statement October 21 telling the public that an internal review of this year's Project has commenced and that he will meet with student leaders from Western University and Fanshwae College.

Look for a follow-up story by Erika Faust in our next issue.