The Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) said students should be required to learn about sexual minorities regardless of what their parents think. .“All staff at the @OCDSB received this email on May 31st, informing them that ‘2SLGBTQ+’ representation in the curriculum and classroom is ‘a fundamental human right,’ that opting out of ‘2SLGBTQ+ learnings’ is not an option, and that teachers who want to ‘foster inclusivity’ can ‘begin the school year using they/them pronouns for all,’ until students have specified otherwise,” said former Ontario high school teacher Chanel Pfahl in a Monday tweet. .The OCDSB starts off the memo by saying ensuring sexual minority representation in the curriculum and classroom is a human right. .“The exclusion or erasure of 2SLGBTQ+ identities from educational materials constitutes a form of discrimination,” it said. .The memo said teachers can foster inclusivity in classrooms by sharing their pronouns. It added teachers can begin the school year by using they/them/theirs pronouns for all until students share theirs. .By communicating the school’s commitment to equity and inclusion, the memo said this can help establish the culture and environment parents can expect. This helps the school community to know their rights, responsibilities, and how they can contribute to this culture of inclusion and respecting diversity. .In accordance with the OCDSB’s legal obligations, this involves being vigilant in identifying instances of bias, discrimination, and hate against sexual minority students and taking action to address them. By combatting discrimination, it said this contributes “to dismantling barriers and fostering a sense of belonging and affirming their rights as valued members of our educational community.” .The memo went on to say learning in schools reflects diversity and is inclusive and welcoming for all students. Throughout the year, schools celebrate, honour, and reflect on multiple traditions, beliefs, customs, cultures, and identities. .The OCDSB acknowledged it is “essential to understand that human rights are not open to debate or selective participation.” In accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code, it is the school board’s professional and legal duty to foster a welcoming, inclusive environment for all students. .The memo concluded by saying opt-out requests are often made in connection with a student’s or family’s religious beliefs. .“While everyone has the right to hold personal or religious beliefs, it’s important to note that expressing those beliefs at school does not allow the right to (1) opt out of 2SLGBTQ+ learning or (2) express discriminatory perspectives towards 2SLGBTQ+ individuals,” said the OCDSB. .“Families may choose to keep their child home during Pride Month learning activities, but schools should not offer the option or approve requests to opt out while in school.” .The Peel District School Board (PDSB) said on May 10 with Pride Month approaching, it will continue its commitment to sexual minority identities and celebrate and affirm them. .READ MORE: Ontario school board demands employees defend sexual minorities during Pride Month.“Memo sent to all @PeelSchools staff in preparation for Pride Month backlash from parents,” said Pfahl..PDSB Superintendent of Equity, Indigenous Education, School Engagement, and Community Relations Lisa Hart and Executive Lead — Human Rights Jasmine Dunn said when addressing sexual minority identities and issues, staff need to apply an intersectional lens.
