MONTREAL, May 13, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Fondation Jasmin Roy continues its work against bullying, discrimination and violence in Quebec learning establishments. To quote Jasmin Roy, president: "It's important for us to recognise school-initiated projects that contribute to the establishment of safe and secure learning environments for all students. "
Just a few days before International Day Against Homophobia on May 17th, Fondation Jasmin Roy, in partnership with TD Bank Group, is proud to award its Ruban Mauve prize for the fight against homophobia in schools to Mountainview Elementary School, Deux-Montagnes (QC). This prize comes with a $2,500 gift and recognizes this school's contribution to that fight. This is the fourth such prize awarded for the fight against homophobia by Fondation Jasmin Roy.
"TD offers its support to the LGBT community and is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion" says Georges Clermont, co-chair of TD Bank Group's Quebec LGBT Committee. "We wish to recognise Mountainview Elementary's remarkable efforts in the fight against homophobia and bullying."
Project summary
The Moving Beyond Tolerance: Combatting Homophobia in Elementary Schools project was created by a team of Sir Wilfrid Laurier teachers assembled by Steve Narine in the 2011/2012 school year. Over the last three years, 12 SWLSB schools have presented the program within their schools. The success of the project is due to the overwhelming support by all levels within the school board.
The Week to End Homophobia encompasses grades from Kindergarten to grade 6, and includes all adults in the school. Throughout the week, all grades participate in age appropriate lessons that deal with a variety of issues which challenge heteronormativity. Younger grades look at different family types and gender stereotypes, whereas older grades explore LGBT celebrities, historical figures, and the effects of homophobia and bullying on youth. Each class learns the meaning of the colours in the rainbow flag and creates an individual rainbow poster with their pledge. All students sign the poster and make a rainbow bracelet which is worn at assembly.
We have found that by teaching and modeling a celebration of differences, students growing up in this environment are open, accepting, and caring.
Fondation Jasmin Roy is convinced that projects such as this help reduce the dropout rate and create a more safe and secure school environment for all children.
Image with caption: "Jasmin Roy, President / Fondation Jasmin Roy (CNW Group/Fondation Jasmin Roy)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20140513_C2660_PHOTO_EN_2117.jpg
Image with caption: "Mountainview Elementary School / Darlene W. Miller, Principal (CNW Group/Fondation Jasmin Roy)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20140513_C2660_PHOTO_EN_2118.jpg
Image with caption: "Mountainview Elementary School / Darlene W. Miller, Principal (CNW Group/Fondation Jasmin Roy)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20140513_C2660_PHOTO_EN_2119.jpg
SOURCE: Fondation Jasmin Roy
Allain Basque, Project Lead, Fondation Jasmin Roy, Cell.: 514-502-1454, [email protected]
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