Nova Scotia has moved to recognize Mi’kmaw as the province's First Language. While this is not to be confused with an “official language” it is being hailed as an important step. Language and Identity Language is an important part of our identity. In many First Nations communities, the amount …
education
Musings about Dr. Seuss
Dr. Seuss is getting a lot of attention this week. If you haven’t read about the decision to no longer publish 6 books you can do so here. The CBC article has many good points, some of which I will discuss below. Impact First, let’s talk about the impact of images and words in books. The …
Effective Allyship
As the weather gets warmer and we step into summer, I've noticed a change in my spirit. A lightness. It also has something to do with lifted COVID restrictions. And, as if on cue with the weather, I have noticed that I'm slipping back into former COVID habits - like not washing my hands right …
Learning Sign Language in School
I’ve been thinking a lot about belonging and connection lately - thanks to Simon Sinek and his book Leaders Eat Last. And then I came across an article questioning if children should learn sign language in school. Which hit me for two reasons, one of which is that my latest preoccupation has been …
The Power of a Name
This week in Ontario, Bill 13 (the Accepting Schools Act) passed. This Bill addresses bullying and includes clear reference to homophobia, biphobia and transphobia as types of bullying. Hooray! Naming is powerful in fighting oppression. One of the aspects of the Bill that has received much …
Balancing Rights
I'm in Newfoundland, working with Egale Canada delivering training to Principals, Vice Principals and Guidance Counselors on creating LGBTQ Safe Spaces (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Questioning) in the province's Junior and Senior High Schools. It's groundbreaking and history …