University of Western Ontario Public Interest Research Group is a non-partisan group interested in social issues that affect members of the university community and of society as a whole.

We work to bring about change through education and action.

PIRG organizations have been active since the 1970's when Ralph Nader started the first PIRGs across north america.

Visit the Ontario Public Interest Research Group website to learn more about other active PIRG's at Ontario Universities.

click here for more information on individual working groups

Mission Statement

As members of UWO-PIRG we will strive to adhere to the following guiding principles:

Equality – To encourage social equality and diversity for all people by opposing all forms of oppression such as those based on gender, "race", class, sexual orientation, age, cultural heritage/ethnicity, religion, gender orientation, ability and physical appearance. We shall work in a cooperative and non-hierarchical way, employ a consensus decision-making process and recognize the necessity of people affected to participate in those processes.

Awareness – To recognize the interconnectedness of social justice and environmental issues and in response pursue nonpartisan integrative research to achieve a solid foundation of awareness. By providing a forum for learning and sharing skills students can empower each other to achieve higher levels of awareness and be able to effectively educate the community.

Participation – To promote civic participation and responsibility by encouraging members and other citizens to become concerned, informed, and active in their community.

Solidarity – To work in solidarity with other environmental and social justice movements in order to more effectively encourage positive change.