Diversity Equity and Inclusion

Creating environments where all students can thrive requires the participation of all students and staff. Like all Canadians have a role in reconciliation, all Canadians have a role in making our spaces anti-racist and anti-oppressive.

A study conducted by Western University found that rates of racism and discrimination experienced by Indigenous and racialized people were higher in Huron Perth than in other regions of Southwestern Ontario. A more recent study found that while racism and discrimination persist, the majority of newcomers to our area feel welcome in Huron Perth communities. You can see both studies through the Huron County Immigration Partnership Study.

Because social groups and individuals experience harm in different ways, it is important to consider all identities and factors that intersect with racialization. Citizenship, class, gender, sexuality, religion, age, ability, body size, etc. all play a role in how students experience the world and should be considered when planning inclusive schools and classrooms.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Resources

• 2SLGBTQ+ Inclusion in School-Based Physical Activity Programs - PHE Canada provides resources and strategies for making school-based physical activity programs more inclusive for 2SLGBTQ+ students. This resource highlights the importance of creating safe spaces for all students in physical education and sports, while offering specific recommendations for overcoming barriers related to gender identity and sexual orientation in these settings.
• The Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI) offers educational & inclusion guides and toolkits on a variety of important anti-racism and intersectional topics, including taking action, building a school-wide initiative.
• Egale Canada: find information on how to create safe and inclusive schools for 2SLGBTQI students and information and tools to combat anti-2SLGBTQI discrimination.
• Experience Canada: provides anti-racism resources for all ages. They are committed to helping young Canadians open their minds, exploring the diversity of language, culture, and lived experiences within Canada.
• Queens University has compiled anti-racism and diversity teaching resources for elementary and secondary educators.
• School Mental Health Ontario (SMH-ON) offers resources for creating welcoming school environments and supporting newcomer students at school. SMH-ON also has created a reflection tool for educators for making a mentally healthy class community.
• Supporting Gender and Sexually Diverse Students - PHE Canada provides educators with tools and strategies to create an inclusive and supportive environment for gender and sexually diverse students. It covers topics such as gender identity, expression, and the importance of respecting all students, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The materials aim to foster respect and inclusion within the school community.
• Trans Affirmative Education: A Guide for Educators – University of Western Ontario offers a research-based guide for educators on trans-affirmative education. The full report provides insights into creating inclusive, supportive environments for trans and non-binary students. It addresses the unique challenges faced by these students and outlines strategies for fostering understanding and promoting gender inclusivity within the school system.
• Welcoming Schools offers comprehensive lesson plans, strategies, and activities to support LGBTQ+ inclusion in elementary and secondary classrooms. This resource helps educators create a safe and inclusive environment by addressing issues such as gender identity, family diversity, and bullying.
• Wisdom 2 Action provides resources with a focus on 2SLGBTQ+ and intersectional identities for organizations and for working with youth