Pride Month is an opportunity to celebrate diversity, learn about the achievements and histories of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, and acknowledge the many challenges 2SLGBTQ+ communities continue to face. This month, and throughout the year, we focus on curriculum expectations linked to equity, human rights, and overcoming discrimination.
OCDSB schools have flown the Pride flag in June to reaffirm to the 2SLGBTQ+ students, staff, and families that we see you, we hear you, we value your contributions and we remain committed to ensuring that our schools and workplaces are safe, welcoming, and inclusive.
This work is part of our commitment to identify and address systemic barriers that affect students, staff, and families’ well-being and success. Throughout the year, we engage in recognizing many dates of significance including cultural and religious heritage months, dates of remembrance, dates that celebrate and promote the human rights of all people, and more. Through the recognition and the related learning we are working to honour, affirm, and value the identities of members of our school communities and take actions that demonstrate our commitment to anti-oppression and anti-discrimination. Visit our Indigenous, Equity, and Human Rights Roadmap to learn more about the actions we are taking to create inclusive spaces where every student feels valued, seen, and empowered.
Schools celebrated Pride Month by engaging in learning that reflects the experiences and perspectives of 2SLGBTQ+ communities. This included creating artwork and posters; organizing walks, picnics, workshops, and other celebrations; raising funds for community organizations; providing library displays with books representing 2SLGBTQ+ stories and identities; making buttons and t-shirts; and much more. Check out this gallery to see some of the activities that happened in our schools: