As the local agency mandated to protect children and youth in Halton Region, the Halton Children’s Aid Society (Halton CAS) is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion for our staff, volunteers, Board of Directors, resource providers, clients and our Halton communities.
The Halton CAS is very disappointed by the decision of the Halton Catholic District School Board (HCDSB) Trustees to not raise the Pride Flag at every school in June to celebrate Pride Month. The gesture of raising the Pride Flag is a strong demonstration of allyship and solidarity with members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Halton Region, across the country and around the world. Preventing equal access to representation is a disservice to the 2SLGBTQ+ community. As students spend a significant proportion of their time each day in the school environment, it is particularly important for them to feel safe and accepted at their schools.
The position reflected by some members of the HCDSB Trustees fuels homophobia, biphobia, transphobia and heterosexism. These actions and beliefs directly contribute to the marginalization, trauma and discrimination faced by members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. It is outdated, it is bigotry and it is dangerous to the mental health, safety and well-being of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
We all must do better. The Halton CAS wants members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community to know that we see you and we support you.
The Leadership Team
Halton Children’s Aid Society