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URGENT!: Keep Anti-Homophobic Education in West Park Elementary School!!

talitha.calder
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Joined: Feb 21 2012

I have started a petition and I was hoping that you all could sign in support of my efforts! It takes less than a minute and can be found here! http://www.change.org/petitions/ms-krista-curry-superintendent-of-borderland-school-division-keep-anti-homophobic-education-in-west-park-elementary-school.

I am trying to collect 1000 signatures or more by tonight. 

Right now, a group of parents in Altona, MB (my hometown) are applying enormous pressure on Borderland School Division to remove anti-homophobic education from school curriculum and support cards for LGBQTI students in classrooms which state that, "As an Ally, I envision a society that embraces, values, and celebrates diverse gender identities, sexual orientations, and gender expressions. . . As an Ally, I am committed to the elimination of homophobia, transphobia, biphobia, and heterosexism." Parents are claiming that the terminology is not "age appropriate" for children and are equating LGBQTI issues as a "topic that is as offensive as murder, suicide, and death." (source: http://www.altonaecho.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3452146).

The recent barrage of homophobic rants and criticism of staff members at the school has left in its wake more re-victimization of LGBTQI youth in Altona. The debate has largely been one-sided in Altona, with parents passing homophobic petitions around in the streets. If the School Board complies with these parents wishes, the youth of Altona and surrounding areas will further be compromised of a valuable education in respect and inclusivity.

Sign the petition to keep anti-homophobic education in West Park Elementary School  - - it will be delivered to the superintendent, Ms. Krista Curry's office on Tuesday night before the school board decides the fate of the cards onWednesday, February 22nd.

Once you're done, please ask your friends to sign the petition as well. Grassroots movements succeed because of people like you who are willing to spread the word! 

I thank you sincerely for all of your support!