Equity and Inclusion Links

Respecting Difference

Released Jan 25, 2012; provides guidelines for formation of clubs and activity groups in Catholic schools within a framework that is “respectful and consistent with Catholic teaching.”

Clarification for Respecting Difference

This Question and Answer guide has been created to highlight and clarify those areas of the Respecting Difference Resource that specifically address the needs of students attracted to the same sex and/or addressing issues of gender identity.

OECTA Bullying Resources and Links

Pastoral Guidelines to Assist Students of Same-Sex Orientation ACBO

Parent Guide – Pastoral Guidelines to Assist Students of Same-sex Orientation ACBO

Church Teaching on Sexual Morality ACBO

Statement on Bill 13 by the ACBO (June 5, 2012)

Statement from Cardinal Thomas Collins on a recent change in government policy regarding anti-bullying initiatives ACBO

Anti-Bullying Legislation – Submission from the Assembly of Catholic Bishops of Ontario to the Standing Committee on Social Policy Concerning Bill 13/14

Pastoral Care of Homosexual Persons: Letter to the Bishops of the Catholic Church (The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith , 1986).

Catechism of the Catholic Church on Homosexuality and Chastity (see sections 2357, 2358, 2359)
Always Our Children (USCCB, 1997)Anti-Bullying Legislation – Submission from the Assembly of Catholic Bishops of Ontario to the Standing Committee on Social Policy Concerning Bill 13/14 Pastoral Ministry to Young People with Same-Sex Attraction (CCCB, 2011)

Respect, Compassion and Sensitivity Fr. James Martin SJ

Homosexuality and the Catholic High School Student (OCFLEN/CARFLEO)

Same Sex Attraction CARFLEO Supplementary Resources to Support Family Life Education (Grade 8)

Ontario’s Equity and Inclusivity Strategy
Education Equity Action Plan (2017)

In September 2017, Ontario launched its Education Equity Action Plan to serve as the province’s blueprint for identifying and eliminating discriminatory practices, systemic barriers and biases from schools and classrooms. This action plan will build on the ministry’s 2009 Equity and Inclusive Education Strategy, bringing new focus and resources to bear as a means of accelerating our progress.

Ontario’s Education Equity Action Plan (PDF, 1.15 MB)

A Message from Minister Hunter

Parent Fact Sheet: Understanding Ontario’s Education Equity Action Plan (PDF, 333 KB)

Parent Fact Sheet available in multiple languages

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Systemic barriers are caused by embedded biases in policies, practices and processes, and may result in differential treatment. The impact of these barriers is detrimental for many and can have lasting consequences. When factors such as race, class, gender identity, religion, and physical or intellectual ability intersect, they can create additional barriers and unique experiences of discrimination for some students.

The action plan will unfold over three years — beginning with the 2017-18 school year — and bring together parents, educators, principals, board staff, trustees and community leaders who will bring it to life.

To help implement the action plan, the ministry has created the Education Equity Secretariat. The secretariat will work to bridge gaps and address disparities in achievement for Ontario’s students through new policies, resources and program options, and with realistic goals that will help all students.
Realizing the Promise of Diversity: Ontario’s Equity and Inclusive Education Strategy and Quick Facts: outline how the Ministry of Education, school boards and schools are supporting stronger equity and inclusive education in our schools.

The Policy/Program Memorandum (PPM) No. 119, “Developing Equity and Inclusive Policies in Ontario schools,” provides direction to school boards on the review, development, implementation and monitoring of equity and inclusive education policies to support student achievement.

The Equity and Inclusive Education in Ontario Schools: Guidelines for Policy Development and Implementation,2009 help boards develop, implement and monitor equity and inclusive education policies, with a focus on addressing gaps in student achievement. The guidelines also offer practical strategies and advice along with examples and templates boards can use to inform policy review, development, implementation and monitoring.
Guidelines for Policy Development and Implementation were released in April 2010 to help boards and schools with their individual EIE strategies.
Sample Board Policy Guideline for Catholic Schools and Religious Accomodation Guideline in Catholic Schools as prepared by the Ontario Education Services Corporation (OESC). Other OESC resources.

Catholic Social Teachings
Center of Concern