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.

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. Build knowledge, capacity, and understanding to increase accessibility and engagement for 2SLGBTQ+ students in school-based physical activity and sport programs
Anti-racism and diversity resources | Queens University. Collection of resources recommended by faculty with expertise in anti-racism, SHARE, and the EDID Committee, as well as recommendations from teacher candidates and the graduate student community.
Anti-racism resources | Experience Canada. Helping young Canadians open their minds by exploring the diversity of language, culture, and lived experiences within Canada.
Creating Safe and Welcoming Schools | Welcoming Schools. 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.
Guiding Questions for Building a Mentally Healthy Class Community | School Mental Health Ontario (SMH-ON). Reflection tool is designed to prompt thinking about building a mentally healthy class community
Inclusive Schools | Egale Canada. Suite of resources including curriculum-aligned toolkits, posters, webinars, and training sessions for all members of the school community.
Insights | Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI). The latest DEIA tools, events and developments in Canada.
Rainbow Action Hub | Egale Canada. Resources, tools, education, and information aimed at 2SLGBTQI organizations, advocates, activists and anyone who wants to understand and combat anti-2SLGBTQI hate.
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.
Supporting the mental health of newcomer students at school | School Mental Health Ontario (SMH-ON). Info sheet to increase dialogue and help enhance capacity around supporting newcomer well-being in schools. 
Trans Affirmative Education: A Guide for Educators | Western University. 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.
Resources with a focus on 2SLGBTQ+ and intersectional identities | Wisdom 2 Action. For organizations working with youth.

Huron Perth Public Health

Huron Office
77722B London Road, RR #5, Clinton, ON
N0M 1L0

Perth Office
653 West Gore St., Stratford ON N5A 1L4
Toll-free 1-888-221-2133
askhpph@hpph.ca