Mount Royal University is appealing a recent ruling from the Alberta Labour Relations Board regarding the termination of Frances Widdowson, a former tenured professor known for her controversial views on Canada's residential school system. Widdowson was dismissed in 2021 following her involvement in a social media conflict with colleagues. An arbitrator later found that while her conduct warranted discipline, her firing was disproportionate. The arbitrator suggested compensation instead of reinstatement due to concerns about her potential disruptive presence at the university. However, the Alberta Labour Relations Board deemed the arbitrator's refusal to reinstate Widdowson 'unreasonable,' sending the case back for further consideration. In June, the university filed an appeal to the Court of Appeal of Alberta, arguing that the board's decision undermines labour law and arbitrators’ authority. Widdowson contends that her reinstatement is necessary to uphold academic freedom and intends to challenge the university's actions vigorously.