The Burnaby Teachers’ Association participated in Vancouver’s annual Pride Parade for the first time ever this summer.
“Pride was an electric event – thousands screaming. People shouted their love for teachers, thanking us for marching,” said James Sanyshyn, president of the Burnaby Teachers’ Association. “About 25 to 30 school trustees, students, teachers and CUPE members from Burnaby marched for miles in the heat to show our commitment to diversity and Policy 5.45.”
Policy 5.45 is the district’s attempt to protect staff and students from homophobic bullying and harassment, but NOW readers may remember it caused quite a controversy when brought in.
Upset parents opposed to the idea formed a group, called Parents’ Voice, that eventually morphed into a municipal political party that unsuccessfully ran candidates for school board.
The reaction to policy 5.45 was all the more reason for Sanyshyn to march in the parade.
“It was important for us to be there in the context of the hate crimes being committed in Russia and the opposition faced here in Burnaby while trying to pass our sexual orientation/gender identity policy.
“Burnaby now joins Vancouver as the only two school districts taking part in Pride – two out of approximately 60,” he said.
Sanyshyn urged other school districts to join the Pride march in 2014.
Anniversary celebration
Rosser Elementary is hosting a 90th anniversary celebration on Friday Sept. 13. The school’s event will include speeches, carnival games and food. Rosser students have prepared displays showing the school’s major events over the last nine decades. Organizers are hoping former staff, students and parents will attend alongside the current school community.
Doors open at 3:45 p.m., speeches start at 4 p.m., and carnival games run from 4:30 till 7 p.m. Rosser is at 4375 Pandora St.
