To the editor:
On September 20, 2023, a protest was led in front of the government buildings. It focused on the education of children, Trans-children. LGBTQSS, queer and their identity.
Education is ever-evolving; developing as times change, as we learn and grow as a society. As an educator I believe supporting children in learning their identity is important, how they fit in the world, that we all belong. Taking time to understand and recognize another’s perspective creates so much potential for the world.
The development of a child has been long studied, documented, and supported. It is clearly understood that a child thrives in an environment that is safe and abundant. Tragically, around the world due to famine, war, natural disaster, and economic collapse, whether man-made or not, many children have not been allowed this and it has become a luxury.
Safety should be found in the comfort of their parents or caregivers, like teachers or guidance counsellors. Sadly, safety is not a priority for children in recent months with the recent statements made by our provincial governments positioning on the rights of trans children and youth.
The birth of a child begins the independent development from that one small group of cells initiated very few months earlier. A child begins learning how to communicate their needs through cries, gurgles, and laughter. As their bodies and minds become more aware, they discover their bodies in the space they are in, recognizing their toes and fingers, and the look and touch of their caregiver. As the child grows, they continue to explore their world according to traditions and customs that are true to their culture and society. Through all of this, children develop their sense of identity and their understanding of who they are.
Enacted in 1948, the United Nations declared the “recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice, and peace in the world.” In 1977, Canada followed suit with the Human Rights Act, written and documented to ensure equality for all humanity.
September 2, 1990, the United Nations recognized the importance of the child. That they have inherent rights to assist in the establishment of the foundations of our community. On that day in September, 47 countries signed the Convention on the Rights of the Child. 54 items were addressed as a fundamental right that every child deserved simply because they, as all of us, were born.
We need to address articles that are being violated.
1. Everyone under 18 has these rights
8. Right to an identity
16. Right to privacy
19. Right to be protected from being hurt and mistreated in mind body or spirit
27. Right to a safe place to live
42. Right to know your rights
I challenge all who have a role to play in the education of the children. Stand for what is right. Stand for the safety of all the children in our communities.
Donna Hall
Oshawa
