Reaffirming Our Commitment to the Safety and Well-Being of 2SLGBTQ+ Children and Youth

Ahead of country-wide protests planned on September 20 in support of eliminating the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity curriculum and policies in Canadian schools, OACAS reaffirms our commitment to decry hateful anti-2SLGBTQ+ rhetoric and ensure the safety and well-being of all 2SLGBTQ+ children and youth.

In Ontario, some youth are becoming involved with the child welfare system because of rejection by their caregivers of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. A child or youth being outed against their will can risk their safety and even lead to serious harm. OACAS believes in centering youth’s voices and allowing youth the opportunity to explore their identities in spaces where they feel safe and have a sense of belonging. All youth, including 2SLGBTQ+ youth, have a right to respect, safety, and well-being in all spaces.