The Eduction System is NOT Neutral!
For decades Black advocates and families have fought for a more inclusive and equitable education system for Black children. The system of education was founded on colonial principles that did not include Black people, in fact, the education system was created to educate Black families toward an understanding of their own inferiority. We see this in curriculums that do not reflect the lived experiences and wealth of contributions of Black Canadians nor does it adequately represent the diversity of the Black experience in Canada.
The system is not neutral, these systems were designed as part of a colonial framework which must be dismantled.
This document serves as a way to empower parents with knowledge about the education system. It is designed for all parents of Black children. It is a navigation tool that you can keep and use with you every step of the way to support your child(ren)’s education.
Other Topics Covered Inside the Guide
General Terms and School Board Terms You Need to Know
The Four Affiliated Teachers Unions
Education Organizations You NEED to Know in Ontario.
What anti-Black racism looks like in daycare
Tips on Preparing Your Child for Daycare with School Readiness
Tips to Help Your Child with Literacy
Black Families and the Child Welfare System
The Difference Between Different Types of School Systems
Systems Abuse & Examples of Teacher Bias
Your Rights as a Parent and Your Child's Rights
The Process for Escalating Concerns in the Edcation System
Informations Regarding Schools Records and IEPs
Learning Strategies to Support Students with Learning Exceptionalities
Situations that Can be Concerning for Children's Aid Societies (CAS)
Education is a Human Right. The Education System is NOT Neutral. Equip Yourself Today.
Our Approach... Understanding Racism
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Racialization1. Racialization
The notion that racism is inherent and embedded in daily life and institutions and the policies and practices developed by and upheld within those institutions.
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Racism is About Power2. Racism is About Power
Acknowledges and interrogates the power imbalances which racialized hierarchies present in society. Critical Race theory asserts that policies and practices developed by and upheld within those institutions.
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Critical Race Theory (CRT)3. Critical Race Theory (CRT)
Race is socially constructed and intersects with other social constructs such as gender, class. This intersectionality presents unique experiences based on hierarchies and barriers designed and perpetuated in society to maintain dominant power structures.
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Our Stories Matter4. Our Stories Matter
According to Criticall Race Theory, storytelling as valid and relevant evidence of structural biases. and the importance of counter-storytelling in addressing barriers and power imbalance
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Racism is Founded in White Supremacy5. Racism is Founded in White Supremacy
Acknowledge the relationship between white supremacy, rule of law and myth of equality amongst racialized populations and refutes the myth of meritocracy- that if you JUST work hard you will achieve the level of success you desire- there are barriers which are erected in order to prevent success for racialized people- Black people in particular.