ETFO responds to Premier Ford’s comments that put 2SLGBTQ+ students at risk

This past weekend, Premier Doug Ford made it clear that he has no idea what “school boards actually do” when he dismissed their law-abiding efforts to protect 2SLGBTQ+ students’ rights. In an attempt to deflect from the ongoing Greenbelt scandal, he made dangerous, inflammatory remarks that put students, educators, and others at risk of great harm.

In a perfect climate, all students go home to a safe and supportive environment, but we know this isn’t the case for all. Teachers and other education workers work every single day to ensure the safety of all students in schools across the province. Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) members work each day to ensure quality public education that may include resources that support 2SLGTBQ+ students and their families.

ETFO’s 83,000 members will continue to work with parents and caregivers to support the best interests of all students in compliance with district school board policies and procedures, ensuring the rights of students are protected. Two-Spirit, transgender, and gender-diverse students are at a greater risk for violence and self-harm. ETFO commits to continue to advocate for 2SLGBTQ+ rights, and will oppose any agenda that spreads hate and fear in any form. ETFO calls on school boards to speak out against any attempts to undermine the safety of students.

ETFO stands in solidarity with students, families, and educators across Canada in the protection of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals’ rights, both in classrooms and workplaces. The Federation continues to create resources to support the inclusion of 2SLGBTQ+ voices for the classroom which are available at etfo.ca.