Ontario Education Minister Stephen Lecce is facing criticism after comments made at a press conference earlier this week, suggesting that the province is considering legislation that might make it mandatory for schools to inform parents when their child opts to use different pronouns at school.
myFM spoke with Nina Irvine, a local parent who felt angry and hurt by the comments.
Home isn’t always a safe place for these students to express their true selves. Advocates say those in open homes likely have already told their parents.
We also spoke with Greater Napanee Pride Board Member Tiffany Lloyd, who says we must continue to monitor the situation and pressure the government to do the right thing.
“The truth is, trans students have existed in schools for decades, and it was never an issue. This, unfortunately, is the focus of a small subset of extreme-right people,” they shared.
Irvine recommends anyone concerned by these comments should reach out to your MPP.
Lloyd also recommends reaching out to your school board and school trustee to share your concerns.
Greater Napanee Pride says they have no reason to believe that Lecce’s comments will lead to unnecessary and uncalled-for policy at this time.
Written by Emily Chatwood