Rise in transphobia and homophobia in Nova Scotia schools needs to be addressed

HALIFAX – Lisa Lachance, NSNDP spokesperson for 2SLGBTQI+ Affairs made the following statement on transphobia and homophobia in Nova Scotia schools:

“I am deeply concerned about the rapid amount of rising homophobic and transphobic hate and discrimination occurring in Nova Scotia schools. It’s happening in all corners of the province - from the desecration of the Pride Flag at Bay View High School to hostility and bullying toward 2SLGBTQI+ people in Cape Breton, and recent events reported at CSAP schools.

The tide is turning in the wrong direction when it comes to supporting queer students and members of our communities and protecting their rights. Perhaps most concerning is the safety of 2SLGBTQI+ students and their right to education in a respectful environment.

As the Minister often says, schools are a part of our communities and the growing issue of homophobic and transphobic acts in the community is equally disturbing and concerning.

Today my colleague Suzy Hansen, NSNDP Education spokesperson and MLA for Halifax Needham, and I wrote to the Minister of Education to request an urgent meeting on the matter.

We need a government that condemns transphobia, homophobia, intolerance, and hate, and reaffirms the rights of 2SLGBTQI+ students. We must ensure all students, staff, and administrators have the tools they need and the ability to ensure that everyone's rights to a safe education are upheld.”

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