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The Greater Essex County District School Board has societal, moral and ethical standards and responsibilities to communicate that our spaces - schools, classrooms, playgrounds, sports fields…etc. are safe for everyone.
We enact policies, develop guidelines and enshrine practices in our school communities to create inclusive, safe spaces based on our commitments and requirements.
Letting everyone know that we promote and enforce the safety of those spaces is a priority.
We fly the Pride Flag in June just for that purpose. It’s a symbol…similar to the ancient practice of displaying an “S” near buildings – designating them as sanctuaries, for all.
It is a promise and debt owed to all 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals.
Recent history has demonstrated that without acceptance, allyship and advocacy, 2SLGBTQIA+ citizens in Canada have suffered persecution – governmental as well as societal.
Discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation was tolerated (if not permitted) until 1996.
Why do we fly the Pride flag?
It says we care about everyone and their rights to freedom, security and safety.
The flag is not against anything – except discrimination. It speaks directly to one group of people but it’s a recognizable symbol that GECDSB schools are welcoming and inclusive safe spaces for everyone.
Sincerely,
Director of Education, Greater Essex County District School Board
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