For immediate release
September 19, 2023
VICTORIA, B.C. – On September 20, demonstrations against the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) educational tool are planned across the country, including in Nanaimo and Victoria. SOGI, introduced by the Ministry of Education in 2016, supports 2SLGTBQIA+ students and combats bullying and discrimination. Sonia Furstenau Leader of the B.C. Greens and MLA for Cowichan Valley has issued the following statement:
“Every day in our classrooms teachers are not just providing curriculum but meeting the needs of children and youth where they are at.
“These demonstrations underscore the fragility of hard-won human rights and are creating unnecessary and unacceptable stress for faculty and staff who are there to create a safe environment for all students in their classrooms.
“We must remember, human rights are universal, and protected by law. The representation of LGBTQ2S+ in media and education is vital for the mental health and wellbeing of our youth. LGBTQ2S+ inclusive education benefits all.
“The B.C. Green Caucus denounces these demonstrations and supports and encourages parents’ engagement with their children’s schooling, which is why SOGI 123 was designed with involvement from parents, educators, school districts, and numerous community and social service organizations.
“We stand with teachers, parents and students and we support inclusive education.
“To the young LGBTQ2S+ members in B.C. we see you, we value you, and we stand by you. Know that you are loved and important, and we promise to always support and champion you.”
SOGI 123 is not a separate curriculum, nor does it discuss sex or reproduction, which are covered under Physical and Health Education lessons. It provides educators with ready to use, grade level appropriate lesson plans, modules, and templates that align with the government’s new curriculum. It focuses on ways to inform students about respecting diversity, such as ethnicity, financial status, sexual orientation, and gender identity. It aligns with the recognition of human rights for all, not only in our province but across the country.
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Media contact
JoJo Beattie
Press Secretary
B.C. Green Caucus
+1 250-882-6187 | jojo.beattie@leg.bc.ca