In anticipation of anti-SOGI protests across Canada on Wednesday, the Richmond Board of Education – and other local education groups – released a statement speaking out against hate, vandalism and attacks against LGBTQ persons.
A march is planned in many communities across Canada on Wednesday morning, with organizers saying they are to “protest LGBTQ indoctrination.”
In late August, rainbow crosswalks at Richmond schools were targeted with homophobic graffiti nine times, including several incidents at a recently painted one at Palmer secondary.
“Acts of vandalism are unacceptable, and our board and partners wish to condemn hate in our schools, our community, and in the City of Richmond,” the statement reads. “We are encouraging other local political leaders to join us in condemning these actions.”
The statement supporting the school district’s Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) policy comes from board chair Debbie Tablotney, the president of two education unions as well as administrators and parents in the Richmond School District.
“We believe that Richmond students, staff and families deserve to feel safe and accepted for who they are and to learn and work in an environment free of discrimination,” they said.
About two dozen communities are listed as locations for “I Million March 4 Children” protests in B.C., but Richmond is not on this list.
SOGI policies are meant to guide educators to talk about valuing diversity and responding to discrimination. This might include discussions about the human rights code, sexual orientation and gender identity.
