OCDSB Statement Against Antisemitism

OCDSB Statement Against Antisemitism
Posted on 09/10/2021
OCDSB Statement Against Antisemitism

This is a special time of year for the Jewish community. Earlier this week, families celebrated Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, and next week will mark Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish calendar. The OCDSB is enriched thanks to the presence of Jewish students, parents, staff and community members. We recognize the significance of this time and send our best wishes to all families marking these important days.

As we celebrate Jewish culture and traditions, it’s also critical we are unequivocal in our condemnation of all forms of racism, discrimination and hate. Recently, we have witnessed an alarming increase in the number of reported incidents of antisemitism around the globe.  Unfortunately, this has included incidents of antisemitism within working, learning and online spaces at the OCDSB. These incidents are harmful to the safety and belonging of Jewish students, families and staff.

Antisemitism has no place in the OCDSB community. 

As a school district committed to cultivating social responsibility and a culture of caring, we recognize our obligation to educate, prevent, challenge and address antisemitism in all its forms. We all have a role to play in identifying and calling out antisemitism when we see it. If you or your child sees or experiences antisemitism, we encourage you to reach out to any trusted staff member who can support and intervene. We also encourage you to report it to the principal or vice principal or to the Office of the Human Rights and Equity Advisor

As we return to school, the OCDSB reiterates its commitment to cultivating an environment where all students, families and staff, feel safe and protected expressing who they are; where critical thought and learning is encouraged and differences are respected; and where accountability for antisemitism and all forms of hatred, racism and discrimination is assured.
To all those who observe Yom Kippur, we wish you an easy fast.

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