Statement on Rights of 2SLGBTQQIA+ Students and Teachers
The Canadian Teachers’ Federation (CTF/FCE) is alarmed by the rise of organized hate across the country. Along with the teachers’ organizations we represent in every province and territory, the CTF/FCE opposes any agendas that aim to intimidate vulnerable people, spread misinformation, and propagate hate. We stand in solidarity with students, families, educators, and the vast majority of Canadians in the protection of 2SLGBTQQIA+ rights.
Over one million Canadians identify as members of the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community. Attacks on them are an attack on our collective freedom and peace. We urge all Canadians, regardless of your political or religious affiliation to reflect on how intimidation poisons the wellsprings of our national identity. We thrive as a nation due to our inclusivity and ability to embrace change. Canadian farmers understand this logic better than anyone: a field with diverse crops yields the richest soil. A country is no different.
The CTF/FCE is disturbed by various provincial governments across this country changing policies in education that cause harm to already vulnerable populations, particularly sexual and gender diverse students and school staff. We are equally troubled by maligned and misinformed groups organizing aggressive hate-filled events.
The CTF/FCE represents over 365,000 teachers from coast to coast to coast, and our policy is clear. The CTF/FCE advocates for educational systems that are safe, welcoming, inclusive, and affirming for people of all gender identities.
We are seeing a disturbing trend emerging that defies common sense:
On June 8, the New Brunswick government revised an education policy which would forbid New Brunswick teachers from using students’ preferred pronouns if they are under 16 years of age, without parental consent.
This summer, during their Manitoba election campaign, Conservatives promised to expand parental rights by changing the Manitoba Public Schools Act.
On August 22, 2023, the Saskatchewan Minister of Education announced a near identical policy to New Brunswick’s.
On August 28, 2023, the Ontario Minister of Education told reporters he believes parents should be told if their child chooses to use a different pronoun at school.
Now, in Alberta, a hate group is organizing an anti “sex-education” convoy targeting teachers and their association in that province.
These actions are not coincidences, and their perpetrators seem to ignore the fact that many teachers are in fact parents.
The CTF/FCE recognizes the immeasurable role most parents play in their children’s upbringing and safety, and safe schools are at the foundation of a peaceful country. To ensure this, teachers need to be trusted as the professionals they are to do what is best for students while in their care.
On October 5, we celebrate World Teachers’ Day and recognize the monumental and noble work of educators everywhere.
Join the celebration HERE.
About the CTF/FCE
Founded in 1920, the CTF/FCE is a national alliance of provincial and territorial teachers’ organizations that represent over 365,000 teachers and education workers across Canada. The CTF/FCE is also an affiliate of Education International, which represents more than 32-million educators.
Media contact
Nika Quintao, Director of Public Affairs
Canadian Teachers’ Federation (CTF/FCE)
Contact
Mobile: 613-606-7809
