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Queen’s University professors have penned an open letter to a former history department colleague, apologizing for the way university administration handled accusations that he used racist and sexist language in class last fall.

The letter comes on the heels of a Canadian Association of University Teachers’ report that investigated the claims against Michael Mason and vindicated the now-retired history professor.

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It also says Queen’s administration has “flatly refused to respond publicly” to the report.

Queen’s provost Alan Harrison has told the National Post the CAUT had no jurisdiction to investigate and the university was “strongly discouraged” by the faculty association from running one of their own.

“In these actions, Queen’s Administration exposes the University and the Department of History to public and professional censure,” read the letter, which had 155 signatories Monday evening.

“It also clearly demonstrates that it cannot and does not represent Queen’s.”

Reached Monday, Mr. Mason was surprised to learn about the letter of support.

“I don’t want to over-dramatize it but it’s been a hard year for me,” he said. “This sort of brightens my day.”

The original complaints against Mr. Mason focused on remarks he made in class, which students complained were racist and sexist.

He admitted he did reference the offensive terms, but pointed out he was quoting from books and articles on racism from relevant eras.

National Post