SOGI is an acronym for Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity.
- It is not a dedicated curriculum or a list of specific identities.
- It is an inclusive term relevant to all individuals, and includes identities such as heterosexual, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, two-spirit, cisgender, and more.
The Burnaby School District wants all of our schools and workplaces to be welcoming and safe spaces for every student and staff member 鈥 this includes all sexual orientations and gender identities.
Read Additional Background and Frequently Asked Questions About SOGI in Burnaby Schools.
Burnaby Schools celebrate diversity. We are proud to be a leader in creating inclusive, welcoming environments in our schools. We strive to provide engaging learning opportunities to inspire each child to reach their potential. We want all students to flourish and we have policies that support inclusivity.
Our Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity policy听(SOGI) is one such policy. It has been in place since June 2011. The 午夜夫妻福利剧场 built the policy through a collaborative process, including reaching out to the public and other stakeholders for input.
It鈥檚 our job to ensure Burnaby Schools are friendly and safe learning environments, and the SOGI policy is a part of that. The District follows the curriculum for each grade level provided by the BC Ministry of Education and Child Care. Students experience lessons that promote understanding of the diverse society in which we live, and they learn to treat each other with dignity and respect, regardless of our differences.
Learn More About SOGI
Creating Welcoming and Safe Spaces in Burnaby Schools
Several events and activities in Burnaby Schools honour and celebrate diversity, including:
Pink Shirt Day
Many Burnaby Schools participate in Pink Shirt Day activities. It is one of several initiatives that teach about kindness and respect for others 鈥 attributes that help to build a sense of belonging. We value kindness every day of the year.
Rainbow Crosswalks
There are several rainbow crosswalks greeting students at our secondary schools, and the first elementary crosswalk was added in May of 2020. They serve as powerful symbols of our commitment to celebrating diversity.
Diversity Dance
The District鈥檚 Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) Committee hosts a 鈥淒iversity Dance鈥 for high school students. In the spirit of celebrating diversity and inclusivity, the dance is for all students.
IDAHAT Event
The International Day Against Homophobia & Transphobia (IDAHAT) was created in 2004 to draw attention to violence and discrimination experienced by members of the LGBTQ+ community. Throughout the world, the day acknowledges the dangers faced by people who have diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, or gender expression. We recognize this day in Burnaby Schools each year at a student event with keynote speakers.
Read More
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