Pride Month is an opportunity to celebrate diverse cultures and uplift the voices of 2SLGBTQ+ people. At the OCDSB, we teach from an inclusive curriculum year round and during Pride Month we learn about the achievements and histories of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, acknowledge the many challenges 2SLGBTQ+ communities continue to face, reaffirm our support for all identities as we stand together against discrimination, push for progressive change and create more supportive environments.
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.
As part of our commitment to human rights, equity, and inclusion, the OCDSB promotes learning that incorporates the experiences and viewpoints of 2SLGBTQ+ communities all year round. By recognizing the struggles with and learning about the history, identities, and successes within the 2SLGBTQ+ community, we promote understanding, acceptance, and support of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals in our schools. These initiatives are essential to build safer learning conditions for students and staff to bring their full identities to school.
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.
Schools commemorated the 2024 Pride Month by engaging in learning that reflects the perspectives and experiences of 2SLGBTQ+ communities. This includes creating artwork, posters, having bake sales and fundraisers for community groups, creating library displays featuring books about 2SLGBTQ+ identities and experiences, creating buttons, and more.
Some schools celebrated Pride with inclusive events like picnics and BBQs. These activities can create a welcoming environment for all students, fostering a sense of community and acceptance.
Check out this gallery to view some of the events that took place in our schools: