HWDSB continues to develop procedures in support of Policy 5.4, Equity and Inclusion, including the Gender Equity Procedure that addresses gender identity and gender expression.
Affirming student identity is not a new practice at HWDSB.
In 2019, consultation began to strengthen procedures related to gender identity and gender expression. The updated procedures specifically address how to accommodate students and staff in promoting and safeguarding the well-being of all Two Spirit, transgender, non-binary, intersex, gender nonconforming and/or gender questioning students and employees.
Dawn Danko, Chair of the Board, has issued the following statement:
On Friday, June 16, two Gender Identity and Gender Expression procedures for students and staff were made available to the public. Despite these items not being on the June 19 Board Agenda, various individuals and groups travelled to the Education Centre in an attempt to disrupt, discredit, and dismantle crucial supports for HWDSB students and staff.
Hate has no home at HWDSB, and it is certainly not welcome in our Boardroom or at our doorstep. When policies are approved by Trustees, we stand by their principles and embed them into our procedures.
Gender identity and gender expression are protected grounds under the Ontario Human Rights Code. All students and staff have the right to attend school and work, and receive equal treatment with respect to services, goods, and facilities.
About the Procedures
If a student or staff member identifies as Two Spirit, transgender, non-binary, intersex, gender diverse and/or gender questioning, then the procedures will support them in accessing accommodations to have their gender identity affirmed. Supports could include having their preferred name and pronouns used, accessing safer and more inclusive facilities and activities, and seeing themselves represented within the classroom and curriculum.
If a student or staff member identifies as cisgender, then the document will not impact upon them at school or work.
All HWDSB policies and procedures, including the Gender Identity and Gender Expression procedures, can be found on the Policies webpage.
Students, staff, families and community members looking for mental health and well-being supports can click here to access them on the We Help webpage. Additional resources can be accessed through the Human Rights Office.
Read more:
For more information
20 Education Court
Hamilton Ontario
Canada L9A 0B9
www.hwdsb.on.ca
