During Pride Month, we celebrate the 2SLGBTQ+ community and acknowledge their diverse contributions to our vibrant school communities. At the Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB), our students and staff are committed to upholding the principle of “dignity and respect for all human beings” within the Catholic faith. This year, OCSB GSAs, Rainbow, and Diversity clubs have joined forces to organize memorable Pride Month celebrations, with the Progress flag proudly flying at all OCSB schools.
Empowering Students – Student HEART Forum
The 2nd Annual Student HEART Forum took place earlier this month, bringing together almost 130 students from our high schools for a day of empowerment and connection. The acronym “HEART” means “Humans Expressing Authenticity, Reality, and Truthfulness.” Students created and chose this name to be inclusive of all identities. Our students also chose this year’s event theme, “Beyond Labels: Embracing the Whole Spectrum of Identity.” The forum was a full day of keynote speakers, workshops, community building, and wellness activities.
Student Forum Making a Difference
Students engaged in thought-provoking discussions, learned from inspiring speakers, and participated in activities that fostered a sense of belonging and acceptance. The event highlighted the importance of embracing each other’s unique identities as Makhena Rankin Guerin said during their keynote presentation ‘to be unapologetically yourself’’ and the strength of a united, supportive community.
How Can You Celebrate #ocsbPride?
Join us in celebrating all month long by using the #ocsbPride hashtag on social media. We love seeing how our community comes together to show support and acceptance while honouring the dignity of each person. By sharing your moments of pride and joy, you contribute to a community that reflects our faith’s teachings, making everyone feel valued and cherished.
When We Know Better – We Can Do Better
As OCSB Director of Education Tom D’Amico beautifully stated, “As a Catholic community, we are guided by Catholic social teachings. We believe that everyone should be accepted and treated with respect in a safe, inclusive, and caring school environment.”
If you’d like to learn more about how the OCSB approaches Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity, please visit our Equity page.
