The Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) says it will fly the Progress Pride Flag for another week along with other school districts in solidarity with the University of Waterloo and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community following Wednesday's attack in a gender studies class at UW.
On a post on its website signed by Joanne Weston, chair of board, and jeewan chanicka, the WRDSB's director of education, the board says it "values all students, employees, and families, regardless of age, ancestry, colour, race, citizenship, ethnic origin, place of origin, creed, ability, family status, marital status, gender identity, gender expression, socioeconomic status, employment, housing, sex, and sexual orientation, and is committed to creating and maintaining learning and working environments where everyone can participate fully, thrive, and reach their full potential, free from trauma, bias, stereotyping, oppression and systemic racism."
"We are saddened by the act of hate that unfolded in our community this week. Our thoughts go to the victims of the attack in a Gender Studies class at the University of Waterloo and to the entire 2SLGBTQIA+ community. This attack has impacted students, staff and families across our region. Moments such as these remind us that learning institutions everywhere need to be places that promote inclusivity and acceptance, and must be safe spaces for all.
"To the WRDSB students, staff and community members who identify with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, “you belong here”. The Waterloo Region District School Board remains committed to naming all forms of hate and systems of oppression including homophobia, biphobia and transphobia. The WRDSB supports 2SLGBTQIA+ students, staff and their families by celebrating the joy of identity and centering 2SLGBTQIA+ histories, contributions and excellence in our learning and work communities.
"We must continue to work together to ensure our learning and working environments are safe for all. We will not tolerate gender-based violence, we do not accept hate as “an opinion” and we will continue to work to address all forms of hate so that everyone in our region, especially the students we serve, experience safety, inclusion and a sense of belonging."
The Region of Waterloo tweeted a similar announcement Friday afternoon, saying it will fly the Pride flag at its facilities until further notice.