Every student in Canada has the right to a safe and inclusive learning environment where they (and their families) are reflected.
Sometimes it can be hard to know what to say when faced with resistance toward 2SLGBTQI inclusion in schools.
This resource is designed to empower educators to tackle challenging conversations in your classroom and beyond.
Tap into shared values.
- Try something like, “We agree that all kids deserve to be who they are and feel safe and respected at school.”
Ask critical thinking questions with curiosity and not judgement.
- Try something like, “Where did you learn about this from? What have you heard those who are impacted say about this issue?”
- The Government of Canada has resources for how to spot and address disinformation.
- Redirect faulty thinking using the Confirm, Inform, Transform framework.
Share stories about the community and aim to humanize.
- Try sharing a story as an example of how harmful beliefs can have a real impact on people’s lives.
- For example: “I had a student once share with me how appreciative they were for my support and how truly lifesaving it was. And that is why I do it.”
Describe what we’re working toward, not what we’re fighting against. This relates back to shared values. Connect to your school board’s mission.
- Try something like, “Reflecting the values of our school board mission, we are committed to cultivate a culture that recognizes and understands the connection between mental health and student achievement. We want to create environments where all students can learn, grow, and exist without the fear of bullying and harassment.”
Avoid debates. Focus on a change in behaviour, not beliefs or attitudes.
- Try something like, “While it is important we respect personal beliefs, schools are also bound by federal and provincial human rights laws which protect all people from discrimination.”
- Or try, “It’s not about changing anyone’s beliefs or values. Our goal is to teach respect, which we all deserve.”
Remember:
- Bringing individuals to a place of understanding about issues that they have limited knowledge of is a process.
- When in doubt, reach out to your administration, teachers’ union, and/or school board for additional support. They are there to help you!
Read How Do We Talk About It? A Guide For Having Difficult Conversations for more in-depth guidance on how to have difficult conversations.