“Gender identity is a prohibited ground of discrimination under provincial human rights legislation, and the education system has a duty to accommodate the needs of transgender and gender diverse students.” That, from Saskatchewan’s Advocate for Children and Youth, Dr. Lisa Broda, as she released her review of the Ministry of Education’s new policy on not allowing teachers to call students by their preferred names and pronouns unless the parents have given their approval.

Her report states that children have a fundamental right to parental support and guidance, but a child’s other rights, such as the right to non-discrimination on the basis of gender identity and the freedom of expression, must not be hindered in that process. Dr. Broda agrees with parents and guardians being involved in education, however she suggests this can be achieved without imposing such strict rules around consent.

Here is the full report: ACY Policy Review – Use of Preferred First Name and Pronouns of Students – September 15 2023 Final