Harry S. Crowe

Harry Sherman Crowe (1922–1981) was a history professor, university administrator and labour researcher. In 1958, his firing by United College gained national attention. In raising questions about the security of academic freedom and tenure in Canada, Crowe’s case became a catalyst in solidifying the work of the Canadian Association of University Teachers (CAUT) in defending academic freedom and ensuring scholarly rights for academic staff in Canada.

Crowe began his academic studies at United College (now the University of Winnipeg) in 1938. He enlisted in the army during World War II; attaining the rank of captain. Upon returning from military duty in Europe, Crowe studied at University of Manitoba (honours degree), and later pursued graduate studies at University of Toronto (M.A.) and Columbia University (Ph.D.). In 1950, he was hired at United College. In 1951, he was awarded tenure and was later promoted to associate professor in 1956.

The events that led to his controversial dismissal began in 1958 when United College Principal Wilfred Lockhart obtained, by mysterious means, a letter written by Professor Crowe to his colleague, William Packer. In that letter, Crowe had expressed concern with the religious and academic environment at United College and the worrying prospect of a Conservative victory in the upcoming federal election. Lockhart raised the letter to the College’s Board of Regents. Professor Crowe was subsequently fired on the grounds that the letter demonstrated his incompatibility with the “avowed purposes” of the College and his lack of respect and loyalty to the administration. Crowe objected to his dismissal by arguing, among other things, that the letter was private in nature and its reading by Principal Lockhart was unauthorized.

Crowe’s termination prompted local and national concern about academic freedom and the status of tenure in higher education. Kenneth McNaught, Stewart Reid, and Richard Stingle announced they would resign in protest.

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