Witness Testimony

Cassandra Schroeder testified that as a Bachelor of Science student at the University of Manitoba, she declined COVID vaccination after recalling mRNA technology being discussed in prior coursework as experimental gene therapy. She also had high blood pressure and consulted her physician, who advised against vaccination but stated she could not provide a written exemption due to risk of professional discipline. When the university mandated vaccination in fall 2021, Schroeder was unable to attend required in-person microbiology labs. She ultimately changed her degree from microbiology to a general science program, eliminating her planned pathway to a master’s degree in microbiology.
She testified that despite obtaining a positive antibody test confirming natural immunity, the university refused accommodation and would not disclose the membership or research basis of its COVID decision-making committee. When testing options were withdrawn in winter 2022, she was removed from both in-person and online classes. Schroeder described social ostracization by peers and dismissive comments from professors toward unvaccinated students. She stated that the policies significantly altered her academic trajectory and limited future opportunities.
Schroeder later applied and was accepted to the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in British Columbia but remains unable to attend because provincial rules require vaccination for participation in clinical settings. She testified that these restrictions continue to prevent her from pursuing her intended career. She also described family tension over vaccination decisions and eventual support through Students Against Mandates, emphasizing the importance of bodily autonomy and individualized medical decision-making.