Statement from Prairie Valley Teachers’ Association and STF

This joint statement from PVSTA and STF is a response to Saskatchewan Party Leader Scott Moe’s statement that his party’s “first order of business” if re-elected would be to establish a policy restricting students’ use of school change rooms to their sex assigned at birth. Moe’s announcement was in response to a reported complaint directed at school in the Prairie Valley School Division. As a consequence, hateful comments have been directed toward teachers and individuals connected to the specific school as well as the school division.

The Prairie Valley Teachers’ Association and the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation value inclusion, equity and diversity. As teachers, we believe in providing a safe space for all children and staff within our schools; however, the actions and words of others have damaged that safe space. The intolerance displayed in recent days demonstrates a lack of understanding and an unwillingness to listen and learn. The experiences of vulnerable groups are real, and are not to be dismissed. The lives of children should not be used as political fodder purposefully designed to divide communities.

What we have seen during the past few days both online and in messages sent directly to our members has been disappointing and in many cases disgraceful. Hate has no place in our schools and in our communities. To our members, we are here for you and offer our support. To the staff and students of Prairie Valley School Division we see you, we hear you, we are with you.