The Burnaby school board has endorsed the Burnaby Children’s Charter, a document that aims to protect kids’ rights and amplify their voices.
The Burnaby Children’s Community Table spent three years developing the charter with input from local children, who told table members what they need to grow up healthy and happy in the city.
“They spoke to approximately 250 children, ranging from the very young to age 12. Some children drew pictures about what was important to them, and others did interviews. The responses were analyzed for themes, and the Charter flowed from that,” reads a press release from the district.
“It was interesting. I think it’s a good idea … because every child needs to have rights,” Sperling Elementary Grade 7 student Stefano Bousquet told the school board, according to the release.
The district says the charter will help it implement the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
“Adults ought to be listening more to children,” board chair Gary Wong said.
Burnaby city council also endorsed the charter earlier this month.
