Petition launched following anti-LGBTQ2 rhetoric at Ontario school board meeting – Toronto

A petition has been launched in response to anti-LGBTQ2 rhetoric heard at a recent meeting of the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB). The petition was started by local parents who are seeking to have a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination against the LGBTQ2 community implemented.

The petition was started after a UCDSB meeting earlier this month, which featured a presentation from a group of parents who were in opposition to the board’s sexual and gender diversity policy. During the meeting, many of the parents took issue with the policy’s inclusion of gender-neutral pronouns and the concept of gender fluidity.

The petition reads, “We, the undersigned, are concerned citizens who stand with the LGBTQ2 community and are asking the UCDSB to take a stand against discrimination and create a zero-tolerance policy for any discrimination or harassment based on sexual or gender identity.”

The petition has already been signed by over 500 people and is gaining support from Toronto-area politicians. Toronto Deputy Mayor Joe Cressy tweeted his support for the petition, writing, “I stand with the LGBTQ2 community and I urge the UCDSB to adopt a zero-tolerance policy for any discrimination or harassment based on sexual or gender identity.”

The petition also calls for the formation of a working group to ensure that the issue of discrimination against the LGBTQ2 community is addressed in the school board’s curriculum and policies. The group would be comprised of “academics, community members, and experts in gender and sexual diversity” and would be consulted on matters relating to the inclusion of LGBTQ2 students in the district.

The petition follows other efforts by the UCDSB to promote inclusivity. The board recently implemented a gender-inclusive bathroom policy and has been increasing the visibility of LGBTQ2-related topics in the school curriculum.

The petition has been met with support from the community, with many people expressing their gratitude for the effort to combat discrimination and ensure that all students are treated with respect. The petition has also sparked a larger discussion in the community about the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students.

The petition is an important step in creating a more inclusive environment in the UCDSB and sends a strong message to those who oppose LGBTQ2 rights. The petition has the potential to be a major step forward in the fight for equality and acceptance for the LGBTQ2 community.