Protecting 2SLGBTQIA+ students
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- Published on Sunday, 29 November -0001 16:00
- Written by editor
PAOV — You can make a difference. Sign now to help Don protect 2SLGBTQIA+ students in New Brunswick.
Save Policy 713 and the rights of 2SLGBTQIA+ students in New Brunswick Schools
17,939 have signed Don Darling’s petition. Let’s get to 25,000!
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Dear concerned citizens of New Brunswick,
We urge the New Brunswick government... to Save Policy 713, which ensures a safe and inclusive school environment for 2SLGBTQIA+ students. This policy is critical to the well-being of these students and must be maintained without compromise.
We understand that the government is currently reviewing Policy 713, which has caused concern, and anxiety among members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and their allies. We want to express our strong opposition to any changes that would weaken this policy or undermine the protections it provides.
It is essential to recognize that more than a blanket approach for all students is required to protect the rights and safety of 2SLGBTQIA+ students. This community faces unique challenges and risks that must be addressed through specific policies and practices. The Charter of Rights and Freedoms alone does not describe the behaviours expected to ensure the safety and inclusion of 2SLGBTQIA+ students.
Furthermore, the government has no mandate for this review, has failed to communicate its reasons, and has not engaged in meaningful consultation with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community or their allies. The government has a moral and legal responsibility to ensure that Policy 713 is saved and that all students in New Brunswick are provided with a safe and inclusive learning environment.
We cannot allow ourselves to be governed by faith-based ideology or the politics of hate and fear prevalent in other parts of the world. Homophobic, anti-2SLGBTQIA+, ultra-right-wing policies must be denounced loudly, and the current governments flirting with these ideas must receive a resounding message.
As a parent or ally, it’s terrifying to see individuals who have not achieved equity having current rights stripped away, with hundreds of pieces of legislation in the USA alone targeting the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Rhetoric that spreads hate, fear and misinformation has resulted in horrific increases in assaults and murders. There is no place for these politically motivated campaigns in Canada, and they must be rejected.
My privilege has shielded me from the reality of those that live in the 2SLGBTQIA+, the daily struggles faced, and the simple act of using the washroom could result in being assaulted or worse.
Being an ally means accepting the responsibility to be educated, engaged and show up when it matters most. I didn’t know what I didn’t know. I’ve been showing up, supporting and speaking up, but today, I understand, even more importantly, what’s at stake.
Parents of 2SLGBTQIA+ students and children want the same as any other parent. They want their children to be accepted, free of harassment, and not to be physically and emotionally harmed. They want their kids to be included, confident and have long, healthy lives and bright futures. They also wish to recognize from Elected and non-elected leaders that they are not starting from a place of equity.
New Brunswick must be where everyone is respected and valued, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Therefore, we call upon allies of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community to stand up, get loud, and join us in signing this petition. We urge you to write to Minister of Education Bill Hogan, Premier Blaine Higgs, and your MLAs to express your support for Policy 713 and to demand that it be saved. We also encourage you to share this petition on social media and to encourage others to discuss this critical issue.
Together, we can make our voices heard and ensure that New Brunswick remains safe and inclusive for all students.
After signing, please also email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call 506 277 6020 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and your MLA (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.)
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