In Canada, anti-trans views are worryingly prevalent and there are signs that anti-trans ideology is worsening. Educators are well positioned to develop support for and understanding of trans realities with their students,but there is a general lack of understanding about when and how these topics can be addressed. 

The option for parents to exempt their children from the Human Development and Sexual Health portion of the Health and Physical Education Curriculum, has led to a cooling effect on 2SLGBTQ+ education in other subject areas. This is despite a clear message from the Ontario Human Rights Commission urging, “school boards and teachers to address LGBTQ2+ identities as much as possible when teaching the Human Development and Sexual Health curriculum – and to embed this learning in other parts of the curriculum, and in other school programs and activities.“ [emphasis added]

It is essential that every educator do all that they can to support trans students, regardless of whether they are aware of any trans-identified students in their class. Creating a safer, inclusive space starts with you! 

Please find more information and ETFO’s 2SLGBTQ+ resource list here.