The Saskatchewan Roughriders’ recent choice to remove receiver Ajou Ajou from the roster last week is a commendable step, according to Jill Arnott, a professor specializing in women’s and gender studies at the University of Regina.
“This is where change begins. We need to highlight these examples and models of transformation, as that is how progress is made,” Arnott expressed in an interview with CBC.
“We are addressing a culture that has permitted and fostered such behaviors and attitudes for an extended period.”
An independent investigation determined that Ajou breached the CFL’s policies regarding gender-based violence and harassment. He has received a suspension from the CFL that covers the entire pre-season and a minimum of six regular season games.
The league reported that he acted aggressively and was involved in what it described as “unwanted contact with women” at a Regina restaurant during the Grey Cup parade in November 2025.
The league stated that it became aware of several allegations in late January and promptly launched the investigation, which included interviews with Ajou, numerous witnesses, and those who complained.
Recently, the league reported that an investigation indicated Ajou had engaged in aggressive and unwelcome physical contact with several women at a Regina restaurant back in November. Advocates believe this action conveys a strong message about the organization’s values.
Arnott noted that the Roughriders’ choice to have an external party conduct the investigation, followed by the swift dismissal of Ajou based on the findings, reflects the team’s strong leadership and clarifies its cultural expectations.
Josh Haugerud, a stakeholder engagement specialist with Sexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan (SASS), echoed that the Riders’ prompt response serves as a model for the rest of the CFL.
Jill Arnott, executive director of the University of Regina’s Women’s Centre, praises the Roughriders for their decision to release receiver Ajou Ajou. (Richard Agecoutay/CBC)
“They have demonstrated leadership and accountability in a challenging situation. They’ve established a tone for their internal culture as well as for all those who look up to the Riders,” Haugerud stated.
In a statement issued on April 16, Roughriders general manager Jeremy O’Day emphasized that the team has a zero-tolerance policy for gender-based violence and harassment, and Ajou’s conduct was contrary to their values.
“We expect our players to adhere to high standards that prioritize integrity and respect for others. He did not meet that expectation and will no longer be part of the Roughriders.”
Roughriders general manager Jeremy O’Day stated that the team does not accept gender-based violence or harassment. (Glenn Reid/CBC)
Training and education on gender-based violence
Haugerud indicated that the Riders’ gender-based violence policy is an excellent foundational step in terms of best practices. Continuous education and training on this topic are vital for fostering a safe and respectful sports culture.
“However, it must extend beyond having a policy,” the SASS advocate remarked. “It’s crucial to truly implement these values, and the Riders accomplished that here.”
Haugerud noted that the execution of the policy also serves as a positive example for those in the province who view football players and other athletes as role models, particularly the youth.
“They should be held to a higher standard, just like anyone in a leadership position, regardless of the organization or government,” Haugerud added.
Josh Haugerud, stakeholder engagement specialist for Sexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan, believes the Riders’ quick response sets a standard for the entire CFL. (Laura Sciarpelletti/CBC)
Organizations taking responsibility can influence broader societal change, especially in a male-dominated field like football.
“Within workplaces and organizations such as the Riders, your culture is determined by the least acceptable behavior you are willing to accept. A person might be an excellent employee, but if you tolerate misconduct, you risk losing others,” Haugerud stated.
“When we witness actions like those taken by the Riders, it reinforces that their zero tolerance policy is genuinely effective.”
Arnott remarked that traditionally male-dominated sports have often been associated with a culture of silence regarding inappropriate sexual conduct and toxic masculinity.
“That doesn’t reflect the true nature of men and boys; it’s a societal imposition,” she explained.
While the industry can recover from these harmful norms, she noted that it would not happen instantaneously.
Continued training within the CFL should focus, in part, on issues of bodily autonomy and consent, Arnott emphasized.
“Do you understand what consent truly means? And are you aware that it can be retracted at any moment? These conversations must be had in an authentic manner.”
Establishing a precedent
Statistics Canada consistently reports that Saskatchewan has the highest rates of sexual victimization in the nation, including incidents of sexual harassment, sexual abuse, and sexual assault.
Additionally, the province ranks first in Canada for occurrences of family violence, according to Statistics Canada. In 2024, the rate was recorded at 737 cases per 100,000 individuals, compared to the national average of 349.
Haugerud suggested that the Riders’ action in terminating Ajou’s contract may encourage future whistleblowers to report instances of sexual assault and harassment, similar to the women who voiced their concerns regarding the receiver’s conduct at the restaurant.
The Saskatchewan Roughriders have removed receiver Ajou Ajou from the team following a league investigation that concluded he breached the CFL’s policies on gender-based violence and harassment. (Heywood Yu/The Canadian Press)
“Other athletes on the team will recognize that they may need to modify their behavior if they are engaging in inappropriate actions. Young fans will observe this, and it will teach them about acceptable conduct.”
Both Haugerud and Arnott agree that the actions taken by the Riders are foundational steps towards creating lasting change in Saskatchewan.
Arnott believes it signals to other industries the importance of taking their policies seriously, supporting victims, and holding offenders accountable.
While the league retains the option to reinstate Ajou, the Roughriders have made it clear that he will not be returning.
Ajou is also required to complete 15 counseling sessions and undergo a psychological evaluation, in addition to meeting with the CFL commissioner before he can be considered for reinstatement.