Throughout the year, there are a number of significant dates that provide opportunities to learn more about the cultures and heritage of many families, students, and staff members within the OCDSB community. This page provides links to information and resources for families. Additional resources are shared with staff to support classroom learning related to these topics.
Learning Disabilities Awareness Month and Dyslexia Awareness Month
Learning Disabilities Awareness Month and Dyslexia Awareness Month are recognized every year in October. The Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario is raising awareness to reduce stigma in order to allow people of all ages to get the services and supports they need to reach their potential.
Learning Disabilities (LDs) including reading difficulties like dyslexia affect one or more of the ways that a person takes in, stores, or uses information. It has been reported that 1 in 10 people in Ontario are impacted by LDs. As with most disorders their effects are different from person to person so it is important to take the time to get to know a person's learning profile in order to match effective strategies to their areas of need.
The month of October is a great opportunity to learn more about:
Dyscalculia: Dyscalculia is a Learning Disability that affects the ability to learn arithmetic and math. It may cause difficulty with counting, measuring quantity, recognizing patterns, telling time and more. It occurs in 5-10% of people, often co-occurring with Dyslexia.
Dyslexia: Dyslexia is an unexpected difficulty in learning to read, affecting about 20% of the general population. Read more about what a day in the life might be like for a child with dyslexia.
Developmental Language Disorder (DLD): DLD is a persistent language difficulty that impacts everyday interactions or school learning, but that is not associated with conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder. About 7% of children have DLD.
Dysgraphia: Dysgraphia is a disorder of written expression and incorporates various aspects, including spelling and handwriting (which includes both printing/manuscript and cursive writing).
Resources:
Holocaust Education Month
Recognized each year in November, Holocaust Education Month provides an important opportunity for students, staff, and families to learn more about the history and legacy of the Holocaust.
It is also a time to honour and remember the over six million Jews who were murdered by the Nazis, and the countless other victims including the Roma and Sinti, people with disabilities, 2SLGBTQI+ people, Black people, Slavic people, political opponents, and Jehovah’s Witnesses, who suffered during the Holocaust.
At the OCDSB, it is our obligation to educate, prevent, challenge and address antisemitism in all its forms. Educating students about the Holocaust, equipping staff members with helpful resources and lessons, and sharing additional information with families is an important part of this responsibility.
We know that learning from our past is critical to shaping a more inclusive future. We must continue working together to build a future that is free of antisemitism and hate. Resources and learning opportunities have been shared with educators in order to help guide student learning during Holocaust Education Month. In addition, there are a number of opportunities for students and families to participate in events as well. Please continue reading to learn more.
Resources:
- Explore these videos from the Centre for Holocaust Education and Scholarship (CHES)
- Watch “Behind the Lies of Holocaust Denial”, a TEDTalk by Deborah Lipstadt
- Visit the website for the Centre for Holocaust Education and Scholarship (CHES)
- Explore resources from the Jewish Federation of Ottawa
- View lists of suggested books from the OJCS Library and PJ Library
Transgender Day of Remembrance
Transgender Day of Remembrance was established in 1999 by transgender advocate Gwendolyn Ann Smith. It began as a vigil to honor the memory of Rita Hester, a transgender woman who was killed in 1998. The vigil commemorated all transgender people who had been lost to violence since Rita Hester's death, beginning an important annual tradition that is now recognized as Transgender Day of Remembrance. On November 20th, and every day, we honour and remember transgender people who have been lost to violence.
Resources:
- Families in Transition: A Resource Guide for Families of Transgender Youth: Online PDF resources
- Family Services Ottawa: Monthly drop in group for parents and caregivers of trans and gender diverse children, youth, and adults
- Youthline: 2SLGBTQ+ youth peer support service
- Kind Space: 2SLGBTQ+ community resource centre
- What Being Trans Means! | Writing Our Own Dictionary - It Gets Better - Video
- Trans Awareness Week (UNSW) - Video
- Trans Day of Remembrance Flag Raising and Art Workshop - Community event on November 20, 2024, 3:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
National Child Day
World Children’s Day was first established in 1954 as Universal Children's Day. It is celebrated on November 20th each year to promote international togetherness and to improve children's welfare around the world.
On this day in 1959, the UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child. Also on this day in 1989 the UN General Assembly adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
In Canada, it is known as National Child Day. It is a day to recognize Canada’s responsibilities to children and youth in the fulfillment of their human rights, on the anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. It is an opportunity to recognize the rights of all kids in Canada, while also acknowledging the unique rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis children.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities
On December 3rd, the OCDSB joins communities and organizations around the world in celebrating the important contributions and leadership of persons with disabilities while striving to build a world that is a more inclusive and accessible society for all.
Each day, we learn and work with, from and beside persons who learn and work differently. Some were born with a disability, while others' lives were changed because of an illness or accident. There are approximately 10-15% students and staff within the OCDSB community who identify as a person with a disability. We believe the numbers are higher. And, we know that many people do not share who they are because we still have much work to do to create a discrimination free environment.
The OCDSB's 2023-2027 Strategic Plan aims to make sure all students, including those with disabilities, have equal opportunities to learn and grow. The plan focuses on making classrooms more inclusive, providing support to help all students meet their learning needs, and improving accessibility for all students.
Black Excellence Day
In 2025, Black Excellence Day falls on January 15th, coinciding with Martin Luther King Jr. 's birthday. As we mark the 3rd year of celebrating Black Excellence Day, let's reflect on how MLK exemplified excellence in his leadership during the civil rights movement and changed history. This day is a powerful reminder that despite systemic challenges and barriers, the Black community continues to thrive and contribute significantly. Join us as we engage in learning activities that affirm Black identities, highlight achievements, and promote understanding.
Students and staff are encouraged to participate in Black Excellence Day by engaging in learning activities and actions that affirm and elevate the identities of people of African descent. This includes expressions of voices, vision and contributions of people of Black African descent past and present with this learning and expression extending throughout the entire year. Use the hashtag #OCDSBBlackExcellenceDay to share how you are participating.
In celebrating Black excellence, we must be cautious to not only celebrate the exceptional acts and achievements of Blacks but also the overcoming of the everyday and mundane struggles. There is value in being the first in your family to finish high school, learning a second language or working to bring about positive changes to your community. Black Excellence is seeing your inherent value whether you’re the greatest of all time or just trying to make ends meet.
“We must recognize that there is magic in the lives of ordinary Black people who are making strides everyday. Excellence doesn’t have to mean a mountaintop of fame, wealth, or even being the greatest. The real excellence lies in just being able to pursue a passion, achieve that goal through grit, wit, and consistency, and ‘pay it forward’ by enabling others to do the same.”(Guy Thierry Tenkouano, Economic Analyst)
In this way we can help to break the stereotype and show all students that Black Excellence is not just for some or the exceptional few but as Black people we all have Excellence in us. (Dr. Rohan Hollingsworth)
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Is Black Excellence Day a spirit day? Black excellence day is not a spirit day. By including historical and present day examples of Black excellence in the curriculum, we are demonstrating our commitment to equity, inclusion and anti-oppression.
2. Is this Black Shirt Day? It is not called Black shirt day, due to the historical connection between Jewish communities and fascist groups which were known as the blackshirts. Read more about this in this article. However students/staff may choose to wear Black or cultural clothing on this day. When Black is worn on this day, it is meant to shift historical associations with the word black (e.g. black as evil and frightening, a black mark on your record etc.), and create and foster rich positive meanings of blackness.
3. Why are we doing this? To highlight the work being done on disrupting barriers to Black students' learning, including increasing the representation of people of Black African descent within the curriculum, and fostering inclusive and culturally responsive learning environments where students’ talents, gifts and achievements can be realized.
Black Excellence Day is an initiative that aligns well with the Indigenous, Equity and Human Rights Roadmap. Black Excellence Day is an action that supports the OCDSB’s commitment to the intent of the UN International Decade for People of African Descent 2015-2024. Learn more about Black Excellence initiatives at the OCDSB.
Resources:
- Viola Desmond: Canadian Civil Rights Champion - CBC Kids video (elementary)
- Read Alongs (elementary):
- Black Excellence Colouring Pages (elementary)
- The Canadian Encyclopedia - Lincoln MacCauley Alexander (elementary)
- Heritage Minute: Viola Desmond (elementary)
- Learn About 23 Black Canadians Throughout History (elementary/secondary)
- Periodic Table of Canadian Black History (elementary/secondary)
- A Video on Lincoln Alexander Day (elementary/secondary)
- Canadian Books to Help Tackle Racism (for educators)
- Déclaration de la ministre Chagger à l’occasion de la Journée Lincoln Alexander
- La Journée Lincoln Alexander
- Lincoln MacCauley Alexander | l'Encyclopédie Canadienne (elementary/secondary)
- L’honorable Lincoln Alexander (1922-2012)
- L’honorable Lincoln M. Alexander - Lieutenante-gouverneure de l’Ontario
Lincoln Alexander Day
Lincoln M. Alexander was the first Black Canadian to serve as Member of Parliament, Cabinet Minister and Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario. Recognized each year on January 21st, Lincoln Alexander Day celebrates his legacy and provides an opportunity to reflect on his optimism and learn from his life and achievements.
Learn More:
- Lincoln Alexander Day Act
- Lincoln Alexander Biography Video
- A Timeline on Lincoln Alexander’s Life
International Holocaust Remembrance Day
In 2005, the United Nations General Assembly designated January 27 as a day of remembrance to mark the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp.
International Holocaust Remembrance Day honours and remembers the over six million Jews murdered and countless other victims of the Holocaust. Learning the lessons from our past is essential to shaping a more inclusive future, free of antisemitism and hate.
At the OCDSB, it is our obligation to educate, prevent, challenge and address antisemitism in all its forms. Educating students about the Holocaust, equipping staff members with helpful resources and lessons, and sharing additional information with families is an important part of this responsibility.
We know that learning from our past is critical to shaping a more inclusive future, free of antisemitism and hate. Resources are included below, and additional resources have been shared with staff members to help guide learning.
Learn More
- Watch these videos from the Centre for Holocaust Education and Scholarship (CHES)
- Watch “Behind the Lies of Holocaust Denial”, a TEDTalk by Deborah Lipstadt
- Visit the website for the Centre for Holocaust Education and Scholarship (CHES)
National Day of Remembrance of the Quebec City Mosque Attack and Action Against Islamophobia
January 29th is the National Day of Remembrance of the Quebec City Mosque Attack and Action Against Islamophobia. The OCDSB joins Muslim communities across Canada in mourning, and in standing together against Islamophobia and hate.
On January 29th, 2017, a tragic Islamophobic attack took place at the Islamic Cultural Centre of Quebec City. A gunman opened fire on worshipers, killing 6 and seriously injuring 19 more. In 2022, the federal government officially designated January 29 as a National Day of Remembrance of the Quebec City Mosque Attack and Action Against Islamophobia.
Muslim communities initiated the Green Square Campaign in January of 2020 as an act of solidarity and hope. The campaign encourages everyone to wear a patch of green fabric from January 25 to January 29 in memory of the victims and to be in solidarity with those who continue to be impacted by consequences of this hateful violence. Resources have been shared with schools to support student learning on this date.
Additional Resources
- Anti-Islamophobia Resources
- Celebrating Diversity: a TED Talk by Raya Siddiqi
- "Islamophobia is" Video Series. Using short, engaging videos, this series provides information about Islamophobia within communities
Pink Shirt Day
Inspired by a real-life act of solidarity against bullying, Pink Shirt Day is recognized every February in schools across Canada. On Pink Shirt Day and all year long, we stand together against bullying, hate, discrimination, homophobia, transphobia, and transmisogyny.
With about 1 in 5 students being affected by bullying, Pink Shirt Day is a great opportunity for students, staff and families to come together to share the message that bullying is never okay.
Bullying is a problem in our schools, workplaces, homes, and online. Pink Shirt Day raises awareness about the impacts of bullying, how to prevent it, and what supports are available to those affected. OCDSB schools will take part in activities for Pink Shirt Day on Wednesday, February 28, and students and staff members are welcome to wear pink to show their support.
If you participate in Pink Shirt Day and post on social media, show us your pictures by tagging our official OCDSB social media accounts.
Learn more about Pink Shirt Day and view resources.
International Transgender Day of Visibility
International Transgender Day of Visibility, occuring on March 31 each year, celebrates transgender people and advocates for their safety and well-being. The date was first marked in 2009 when trans, gender diverse, intersex, and Two-Spirit peoples recognized the need to celebrate trans individuals and communities.
On this day, 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.
Black Mental Health Day
Black Mental Health Day, recognized each year on the first Monday of March, is an opportunity to confront the impacts of anti-Black racism on the physical and mental health of Black Canadians.
As a District, we acknowledge the historic and contemporary role schools in Canada have had in perpetuating myths, doctrines, false science, and narratives about people of African descent, and that these have compromised how children of African descent feel, think, grow, and actualize their potential and purpose in the world. Though these are year-round problems, Black Mental Health Day provides an important opportunity to discuss these realities, share support and resources, and acknowledge the need for change.
This year, the Ottawa Black Mental Health Coalition is hosting an in-person and online event called “Embracing Joy: Past, present and future” on Monday, March 4th from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. This event will explore how joy throughout the lifespan can foster mental wellbeing.
Additional Resources:
- Ottawa Black Mental Health Coalition
- How to Foster and Maintain Supportive Spaces for Black Youth
- 5 Tips for Adult Allies
- Your Role as an Adult Ally
Community Mental Health Resources for Black, Muslim, Somali and Arabic-Speaking Persons:
- Black Youth Helpline: 416-285-9944
- Jaku Konbit (Black youth support group): 613-567-0600
- Somali Centre for Family Services: 613-526-2075
- Naseeha Mental Health: Call or text 7 days a week for mental health support at 1-866-627-3342
- SAPACCY: Connecting Black youth with Black clinicians
- RiseUp powered by Kids Help Phone: Text RISE to 686868 or visit their website
International Day to Combat Islamophobia
The International Day to Combat Islamophobia is an international observance designated by the United Nations in 2022, taking place on March 15 every year in 140 countries worldwide. The date, March 15, was chosen as it is the anniversary of the Christchurch mosque shootings, in which 51 people were killed during Friday prayer.
At the OCDSB, we have an obligation to educate, prevent, challenge and address Islamophobia in all its forms. On this day, we come together to reflect and learn about the role we all play in building a more inclusive future, free of Islamophobia and hate.
Learn more on the United Nations website.
Autism Awareness
April is recognized as Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month at the OCDSB and includes World Autism Awareness Day on April 2.
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that occurs in all racial, ethnic, socio-economic and gender identity groups and affects the way people interact and communicate with those around them. Each autistic individual has their own strengths, needs and gifts.
Throughout the month, the OCDSB will be offering a number of learning opportunities for students, staff, and families, and recognizing that promoting inclusion and well-being is a responsibility we all share. Schools will receive a number of books, posters, resources, tools, and learning kits to help students and staff recognize Autism Awareness and Acceptance. While each school’s activities and learning will be different, all are invited and encouraged to showcase student inclusion, well-being, and awareness.
This year, the OCDSB has unveiled a new symbol for Autism Awareness and Acceptance that was created with and consulted by autistic individuals and parents/caregivers of autistic students. Together, we've created a powerful emblem that speaks to growth, transformation, and the spectrum of diversity within our District. Learn more about the new symbol.
Visit our Autism Awareness and Acceptance page for videos, tip sheets, colouring pages, and other resources.
Sikh Heritage Month
April is Sikh Heritage Month, an opportunity to learn about and celebrate the history, culture, and many accomplishments of Sikh Canadians. April is an important month for the Sikh community. Sikh Canadians celebrate Vaisakhi/Baisakhi, which marks the creation of the Khalsa and the Sikh articles of faith. This holiday is also celebrated by people of the Hindu faith.
Additional Resources:
International Day of Pink
International Day of Pink takes place on the second Wednesday each April. It is an opportunity to stand in solidarity with the 2SLGBTQ+ community against homophobia, transphobia, transmisogyny, and bullying in any form. On April 10, we show support for equality and acceptance by wearing pink. Learn more:
Yom HaShoah
At sundown on May 5, 2024, people around the world will unite for Yom HaShoah. Yom HaShoah commemorates the lives of the six million Jews murdered by the Nazis during the Holocaust. As we vow Never Again, let us reflect on the role that we all play in building an inclusive, safe, and accepting community, and on combating modern day antisemitism along with all forms of hate and oppression.
Additional Resources
Survivors’ Testimonial Stories, Centre for Holocaust Education and Scholarship
International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia
The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT) is recognized each year on May 17th, raising awareness about the discrimination, violence, and stigma the 2SLGBTQ+ community continues to face.
This year’s theme is “No one left behind: equality, freedom and justice for all.” The world has just celebrated the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, yet we know that “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights” represents a promise not yet fulfilled – for 2SLGBTQ+ people across the world, and for everyone experiencing the impact on their lives of diverse layers of inequalities. This year’s theme is a call for unity: only through solidarity for each other will we create a world without injustice, where no one is left behind.
Resources:
National AccessAbility Week
National AccessAbility Week, recognized each year during the last week of May, is an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities.
At the OCDSB, we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential. We believe everyone deserves the right to an education without barriers caused by limited or no access to facilities and relevant, responsive services. The District is committed to removing barriers, whether visible or invisible, that may prevent this. National AccessAbility Week offers the opportunity to learn more about accessibility and to reflect on how we can make our school communities more accessible and inclusive.
Wednesday May 29th is Red Shirt Day for Accessibility and Inclusion. This date encourages communities across the country to wear red as a visible symbol of solidarity, celebrating the accomplishments of Canadians with disabilities and showing support for individuals with disabilities and their families. All are invited to wear red on Wednesday, May 29th to show support.
Additional Resources:
- National AccessAbility Week, Government of Canada
- National AccessAbility Week, Rick Hansen Foundation
- Red Shirt Day & National AccessAbility Week, Easter Seals Canada