B.C. Liberals Fail To Take Strong Action To Stop Homophobia In Schools
VICTORIA — Even on the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia the B.C. Liberals were unwilling to commit to taking strong action to fight homophobia and transphobia in publically-funded schools, say New Democrats.
Spencer Herbert
“Discrimination based on sexual orientation is not only wrong, it is against the law. Yet the Minister of Education refused to stand up and commit to taking strong action to ensure that every school in the province accepts and celebrates all students and staff regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity,” said Spencer Chandra Herbert, the New Democrat MLA for Vancouver West-End.
“We gave the minister multiple opportunities to take a clear stand against homophobia and transphobia but she responded with vague and evasive answers.”
Mable Elmore
Chandra Herbert noted that teens who self-identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transsexual or transgendered are at higher risk of attempting or committing suicide than their heterosexual peers, in part because of bullying and the culture of intolerance that still proliferates in our schools.
“It’s clear that we still have a long way to go before queer students and teachers will feel safe and celebrated in every classroom in the province,” said Chandra Herbert. “Yet the minister seems unconcerned about this serious and even life-threatening issue.”
Mable Elmore, the New Democrat MLA for Vancouver-Kensington, made a two-minute statement to commemorate the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia yesterday. It can be found here: International Day Against Homophobia - Mable Elmore, MLA Vancouver-Kensington - May 17, 2010
Carole James and New Democrats are committed to preparing our children for tomorrow's knowledge economy with a quality public education system for all.
