On the eve of the 1 Million March 4 Children, the Comox Valley School District, along with partners the Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 439, and the Comox District Teachers’ Association, co-signed a letter expressing their support of the 2SLGBTQAI+ community, and of the SOGI 123 initiative.

The letter, published below in its entirety, was sent out to parents and guardians of all SD 71 schoolchildren.

Re: Strong Support for 2SLGBTQAI+ Inclusion in SD 71

We, the signatories of this letter, wish to express our wholehearted support for the values of inclusivity, diversity, and the advancement of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) rights. As we strive for more inclusive and equitable educational environments, we firmly believe that embracing diversity is paramount for the well-being and growth of our entire community.

Our unwavering dedication is to provide a high-quality education and safe atmosphere for our students, staff, families, and community members. We recognize the significance of honoring and celebrating the diverse identities and backgrounds within our school community. We are resolute in our commitment to fostering a school environment that is devoid of discrimination or harassment rooted in sexual orientation or gender identity.

We have seen the harm inflicted by anti-2SLGBTQAI+ movements and the direct impact on the well-being of our students, staff, and families who require our steadfast support. As a district, we have made significant strides in establishing safe schools and remain firmly committed to ensuring that every student experiences a profound sense of belonging.

To our 2SLGBTQAI+ students, district staff, and families, we want to affirm our recognition of your vital presence within our school community. We wish to underscore our unwavering support for you. You are an indispensable part of our school fabric, and our commitment to nurturing an environment where you can excel academically, socially, and emotionally remains steadfast.

Respectfully,

Michelle Waite

Chairperson, Comox Valley Schools

Jeremy Morrow

Superintendent, Comox Valley Schools

Kiyoshi Kosky

President, Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 439

Karla Neufer

President, Comox District Teachers’ Association

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While the 1 Million March 4 Children did not list Courtenay as one of the 99 cities officially registered for the march, a small group of anti-SOGI activists protested the initiative in front of the SD 71 offices, on Cumberland Road. A comparatively large group (approximately 10 times the size) rallied across the street at Harmston Park in support of the 2SLGBTQAI+ community, and the SOGI 123 initiative.