Today we recognize and honour the bravery, the courage, the uniqueness, the resilience, the warmth, the creativity, and the fabulousness of Two-Spirit, transgender and gender diverse students, staff, family members, and neighbours.
Whether you have come out openly as transgender, are unsure, or not ready to do so, we celebrate you. Your strength, your brilliance, and the way you continue to shine, inside and out.
While this day is meant to celebrate the bravery and accomplishments of transgender communities, this comes amidst a rise in transphobia that too many continue to face. We recognize our role in the work to dismantle systems and practices that perpetuate ignorance, fear, and hate. These barriers not only harm transgender and gender diverse peoples, but they limit their potential to learn, work and express themselves authentically, without fear.
Here are some ways you can uplift and celebrate the transgender community:
- Centre the voices of transgender and gender diverse folks.
- Embed trans-inclusive education throughout the curriculum.
- Push for support and inclusivity, not just “tolerance”.
- Speak up in support of transgender people and transgender rights.
- Think about how you use gendered language.
- Support transgender and gender diverse creatives, businesses, and organizations.
- Stop the spread of online content, videos or images that cause further harm.
- Share trans stories of authenticity, uniqueness, and success.
We acknowledge there remains much work to do. We will continue to advocate for your right to live safely and authentically in our schools and community.
To all OCDSB transgender and gender diverse students, staff and families - We see you, we hear you, we celebrate you, and we are grateful for your contribution to this community.