Myth: SOGI-inclusive education pushes children to become gay or transgender
Fact: Sexual orientation and gender identity are innate parts of who your child is. Nobody can change that, and nobody is trying to. The goal of SOGI-inclusive education is to create a school environment where every child can be their authentic self, without fear of harassment, discrimination, or being left out by others. Positive representation of the diversity that already exists all around us improves mental health outcomes for all students.
Myth: ‘Gender Ideology’ is a fad, and we don’t know the long-term consequences of supporting transgender youth.
Fact: Transgender people have always existed. Many know their true gender identity from a very you age. Studies across decades consistently show that supporting students in their identities leads to better emotional, social, health, and academic outcomes.
Myth: SOGI-inclusive resources are inappropriate and contain explicit content.
Fact: There is no pornographic or explicit content in any curriculum taught in our schools. SOGI-inclusive education and resources address topics like diverse identities, family diversity, stereotypes, bullying and name-calling. These resources help teachers ensure everyone feels included when teaching any subject area, including social studies, English and arts education.
Myth: SOGI-inclusive education violates parents’ rights.
Fact: SOGI-inclusive education is meant to complement parents’ efforts in teaching essential values of tolerance, respect, and acceptance of all people. It does not undermine parental rights but rather contributes to a greater understanding of diversity and inclusion for all students and families.
Myth: SOGI-inclusive education is the same thing as sexual health education.
Fact: SOGI is a distinct and separate topic from sexual health education. SOGI-inclusive education is designed to promote understanding, inclusivity, and support for all students, and encompasses a broader range of topics, including identity, respect, and belonging.
Sexual health education, on the other hand, is part of BC’s Physical and Health Education curriculum and focuses on the biological, physiological, and reproductive aspects of human sexuality. Sexual health education is taught separately and follows specific guidelines. Parents or guardians, in consultation with their school, may arrange for alternative delivery for certain topics contained in the Physical and Health Education curriculum for K-10 students.
Myth: SOGI-inclusive education is inappropriate for students.
Fact: All students learn about topics such as respect, compassion, and diversity, while more complex topics such as discrimination and injustice may be explored in developmentally and age-appropriate manner. SOGI-inclusive resources play a pivotal role in addressing fundamental human ideals such as diversity, acceptance, and a sense of belonging. SOGI-inclusive education is essential for every child.
Myth: SOGI-inclusive education is a recent and controversial addition to education.
Fact: SOGI-inclusive education, like the inclusion of diverse cultures and races, had been part of the broader goal for diversity and inclusion in our schools for decades. Although SOGI had gained increased attention recently, it is not a new concept and is supported by many educational organizations, school districts, and child development and health experts. Sexual orientation and gender identity are also protected under the BC Human Rights Code, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and provincial legislation.
Myth: SOGI-inclusive education is not needed because these issues are not relevant to all students.
Fact: These issues are relevant to every student. SOGI-inclusive education is intended to foster inclusivity and respect, address issues of discrimination and bullying, and build understanding and empathy among all students. Furthermore, 2SLGBTQ+ students are members of our school communities and often face unique challenges related to their identity. Studies show that having inclusive classrooms and SOGI-specific anti-bullying policies improve the school climate, reducing discrimination, depression, anxiety, substance use, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts for all students. SOGI resources help ensure schools are welcoming for every person and allow teachers to address important topics in a safe and age-appropriate manner.
Myth: School libraries have books that are not safe for children
Fact: School libraries and learning commons are safe spaces for children and youth. Our school district has a comprehensive policy that guides teacher librarians when selecting books for school libraries. This policy includes specific criteria that both elementary and secondary librarians must consider. This ensures that the books selected are age-appropriate and reflect our diverse community, including 2SLGBTQ+ students and families. Within our secondary schools, a wide range of books are available that address diverse and, at times, mature subject matter. School libraries offer a controlled environment where students can explore these topics safely and in a structured manner. Having access to resources that delve into diverse and mature subjects is vital for older students, eliminating reliance on potentially unreliable or harmful internet sources. Moreover, it guarantees that a trusted adult is on hand to provide support if required.
Myth: SOGI-inclusive education takes away the right for parents to know what their kids are being taught.
Fact: Parents always have a right to know what their kids are being taught. If a parent has questions, they should talk to the teacher directly to learn about what is being taught. SOGI-inclusive education is meant to support parents’ own efforts to teach values of tolerance and respect, as well as acceptance of all people. It does not undermine parental rights but rather contributes to a greater understanding of diversity and inclusion for all students and families.