Premier Ford (ON) said parents could opt out of sexual education within the curriculum; a step towards respecting parental rights and religion. Yet, with school now underway, parents are seeing requests to do so denied.

York Supt Liz Davis stated “(We) will limit (efforts) which may put (the) human rights and freedoms of others at risk. (We) are not in a position to accommodate exemption from critical discussions about fundamental human rights. (The request) contradicts the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and Ontario Human Rights Code.”

It is unclear what qualifies Davis to speak on the constitutionality of school policy. (See the attached Univ. of Sask. link speaking to the many ways the education system restricts fundamental freedoms.)

Parents As First Educators (PAFE) contacted Mama Bears (Mamabearsproject.com), a national children’s advocacy group, for support. York, Ottawa Carleton and Halton school boards have been unable to support parental rights or religious freedoms. In some instances, even expressing disdain for the role of parents, presenting themselves and their curriculum as superior.

Other Premiers have offered more robust support. After highly contentious images of Lumsden-Morse school (SK) providing ‘porn cards’ to students, Premier Moe banned Planned Parenthood, promising parents unfettered access to curriculum. Premier Higgs (NB) has stated parents must be notified if their child changes pronouns at school.

Although federal MP’s have raised this matter, a positive step in acknowledging the divisive nature of the issue and need for further public consultation, education remains a provincial jurisdiction.

A recent Angus Reid poll reflects the public’s position, showing 66-80% believe parents should be notified if children wish to be identified differently, while 34-50% further agree parents must give consent.

In the absence of government support, alternative schooling is becoming the desired way forward in protecting the rights of parents as primary decision-makers. Home schooling is a popular choice, with support from groups like Mama Bears requested with greater urgency than ever.

To access the “X” link to Supt Liz Davis’s response, click here 

To access the University of Saskatchewan’s link to “Understanding Canadian Schools: An indoctrination to educational administration” click here 

To view the Angus Reid poll mentioned in our post, click here