College supports government’s anti-racism initiatives

July 10 2020

The Ontario College of Teachers supports the provincial government’s initiatives to eradicate racism and discrimination in the province’s education system.

Yesterday, the College was included in plans to publish a professional advisory for the College’s 234,000 members and to explore amending the Ontario College of Teachers Act  "to ensure there are clear, transparent, and effective accountability and recourse measures in rapidly responding to instances and allegations of anti-Black racism and discrimination.”

“The government’s plans align with our work and ongoing commitment to address all forms of discriminatory behaviour, including anti-Black racism,” said Tim Gernstein, OCT, Vice-Chair of the College’s Council. “We look forward to working with them closely.”

The College recently announced that it would develop Additional Qualification guidelines for an anti-Black racism course, which it looks to introduce later this fall. In addition, plans are underway to provide additional training for Council and committee members as well as College staff on Anti-Black Racism, inclusivity and unconscious bias.

“We infuse our long-standing commitment to anti-oppression, inclusion and diversity into all areas of our work,” says Chantal Bélisle, OCT, Deputy Registrar. “And, we support all efforts to eliminate systemic racism in education.”