What is the Ontario Public Interest Research Group at Brock?

OPIRG OfficeOPIRG-Brock is a non-profit, student-funded and student-directed organization, which encourages and supports research, education and action on social justice and environmental issues. The Brock University chapter was formed by the student body in 1988 and is one of eleven chapters in Ontario. OPIRG-Brock is governed by a Board of Directors which is made up of Brock students and members of the community who are elected at an Annual General Meeting. Working collectively, making decisions by consensus in an inclusive and fully participatory environment. The Resource Centre, as well as all OPIRG events are open to students and members of the surrounding community.

Our mandate is research, education and action. We conduct research in the public interest on topics of social and environmental concern. We use education to raise awareness of public issues and mobilize public opinion. Action is performed to develop and implement strategies to reach our goals. OPIRG-Brock provides the tools and resources for Brock students and community members to bridge the gap between theory and practice in order to lead our community away from self-destruction.

OPIRG-Brock actively pursues an atmosphere that respects diversity, challenges opressive relations (poverty, racism, ageism, etc.) and recognizes the sameness of social and environmental issues in order to address them in a holistic way. OPIRG believes that by providing training, support and opportunities to committed individuals, the transformation of society is becoming reality. Through participatory democracy and community we continue to work towards environmental sustainability and social equity for all people.