BUILDING A CULTURE OF HUMAN RIGHTS
Communication Campaign
We are proud to unveil the first poster in the Human Rights & Equity Advisor (HREA) Poster Series, an initiative designed to weave the concepts of respect and inclusion into the fabric of our community life. Our inaugural poster, “Love Thy Neighbour, Respect Their Rights,” marks the beginning of a campaign to deepen our commitment to the values of understanding and mutual respect. The Office of the HREA safeguards Human Rights within the York Catholic District School Board. As a confidential resource for addressing and resolving issues of discrimination, harassment and reprisal under the Ontario Human Rights Code (Code), the Office is also at the forefront of enhancing our collective understanding of Human Rights obligations.
This poster campaign, bearing messages that resonate with our faith-based principles and the inherent value of each individual, is an extension of our legal obligation to cultivate an environment that upholds the Human Rights and dignity of every member of our school community.
Join us as we embark on this visual journey, championing the cause of Human Rights and equity and affirming our unwavering commitment to creating a harmonious educational setting for all.
What are slurs?
Slurs are primarily used to harm individuals simply because of their group membership. It not only offends but also seeks to cause oppression. Slurs are often deeply rooted in history, with oppressive groups using slurs to demean and degrade various communities. The use of slurs, and their oppressive nature, can be used to create a divide within society, and to subjugate the listener to feel as if they are a ‘second-class citizen’ or less than due to a characteristic they possess no control over.
Why are they problematic?
The use of slurs, whether targeted at another or not, can negatively affect listeners who belong to the community being targeted. Specifically, it can result in the internalizing of negative feelings and sentiments, manifesting in thoughts suggesting there is something inherently wrong with that individual.
Crucially, note that slurs that pertain to a protected characteristic under the Code fundamentally attack an aspect of an individual’s identity that they possess no control over. As previously mentioned, attacking an individual’s characteristics, in which they possess no control over, creates the image or idea that they are ‘less than.’ Furthermore, the use of slurs can fuel the continued use of historical imbalances that ought to be forgotten in history. Under no circumstances should slurs be used, even in an educational sense, in schools when communicating with others.
N-Slur
The N-Slur is deeply rooted in history as a word meant to degrade and dehumanize slaves of African descent. Kehinde Andrews, professor of black studies at Birmingham City University notes that the use of the N-Slur is:
“Tied to the idea that African people aren’t really human beings… They were more like an animal than a human being, a beast of burden, could be bought and sold, could be thrown overboard ships and literally had no rights.”
In light of this, the deeply offensive and problematic use of the word cannot be understated. The pervasive connotation of the word, deeply rooted in malicious and degrading intent, underscores the importance of not using this word. Regardless of circumstances or intent, the use of the N-Slur cannot be justified and should not be used in any scenario.
HREA Leads
The HREA Lead is a vital volunteer position within YCDSB that operates as a key extension of the Office of the Human Rights & Equity Advisor (HREA) in the schools. The HREA Lead plays an instrumental role in fostering a culture of human rights and equity across the educational landscape by informing the school community about the HREA Complaint process and sharing best practices that are in alignment with the values and human rights related policies of the YCDSB.
Key Aspects of the HREA Lead Role:
- General Guidance: The HREA Lead may act as an initial point of contact for individuals who have encountered adverse experiences related to discrimination, harassment, or reprisal based on protected characteristics leading the Complainant to the HREA Complaint Form.
- Educational Support and Facilitation of a Proactive Approach to Human Rights & Equity Issues: The HREA Lead may, in conjunction with the Principal, contribute to the delivery of programs for students, and staff that aim to enhance awareness and understanding of the Human Rights Code, the Board’s Human Rights Policy, and the critical importance of fostering an inclusive environment.
- Capacity Building and Providing Feedback to the Office of the HREA: The HREA Lead will enhance their own understanding and that of the school community regarding the lived experiences of marginalized groups and the impact of discrimination. They will also be provided with networking opportunities to share best practices and collaborate and they will also be instrumental in providing feedback to the Office of the HREA, highlighting trends, challenges, and successes in advancing human rights & equity within the school community.