A teacher at Londonderry School in Edmonton took it upon herself to blast Muslim students in the class about skipping Pride events, with a student recorded the rant and put it on the internet.."Do you think it's acceptable to not show up because you think there are some Pride activities going on at school," the teacher asks Muslim students in the rant..The teacher claims in the recording the Muslim students showed their opinion by hanging out at the mall during Pride activities..The teacher then told students other classmates who are celebrating Pride month were in class when Ramadan was celebrated..Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting,."They're showing respect to the class, for your religion," the teacher said about students celebrating Pride month in the class..The teacher then mentioned Uganda to the class as an example.."Literally, if they think you are gay they will execute you. If you believe that kind of thing, then you don't belong here," the teacher said.."Because that is not what Canada believes. We believe in freedom. We believe that people can marry whomever they want. That is in the law. And if you don't think that should be the law, you can't be Canadian.".The screen recording of the rant was posted to Twitter and gained traction on the internet.."Many of you may have heard an audio recording of a teacher at Londonderry School circulating on social media channels," said Ed Charpentier, principal of Londonderry School in a letter sent home to parents on June 3.."I want to emphasize that the views expressed by the teacher do not reflect the values of acceptance, inclusion and belonging that are so strong at Londonderry School.".Charpentier told parents in the letter "Words matter" and they have "the ability to bring us together and also to divide us."."I want to assure you we are addressing the situation accordingly," Charpentier wrote.."As I shared in my last message, we will recognize both Pride Month and National Indigenous History Month in June. Our school community is incredibly rich and diverse, and I am inspired by it every day. This diversity and sense of belonging at school enriches student learning and experiences.".Charpentier said Pride Week may be mentioned during the daily announcements as a way to highlight activities.."There may also be materials like posters in the common areas of the school as well as some activities for those that wish to participate," Charpentier said.."Pride week is an opportunity to reflect on the importance of being kind and accepting to all people. Students of all ages deserve to have their unique families and identities represented positively. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to the school."
