Statement in Support of Kike-Ojo Thompson
and Anti-Racism Work in Education
Parents for Diversity Stands Strong in Support of Anti-Racism Education in Our Public Schools.
In the pursuit of dismantling anti-Black racism, it’s understandable and expected that the journey can be both challenging and exhausting. The path towards progress is not linear. True progress often emerges from the resilience we show in the face of obstacles and uneven terrain on that path toward affirming the dignity and worth of our individual and collective humanity.
Parents for Diversity wholly supports Kike Ojo-Thompson in her relentless pursuit of fostering anti-racism within the Ontario education system. It is disheartening to witness the scapegoating she has faced in the media, another regrettable instance of anti-Black racism directed towards a Black woman leading anti-racism work. Her dedication to the work of building equitable and humane systems is not only commendable but also essential for the progress of leadership in schools and Canadian society as a whole. An attack on anti-Black racism work is an attack on ALL anti-oppressive work. We stand in support of Kike Ojo-Thompson and the Kojo Institute’s principles, approach, and mission in relation to promoting equity, diversity and inclusion.
Kike’s commitment to anti-racism work is crucial because it addresses the deeply ingrained inequalities that have persistently plagued our educational institutions. By actively engaging in conversations, providing advice on policy-making, and modeling best practices that challenge systemic racism, the Kojo Institute is playing a pivotal role in creating inclusive learning environments that empower all students, regardless of their background. It is imperative that we confront uncomfortable truths, acknowledge historical injustices, and actively engage in conversations about race, racism and privilege.
At Parents for Diversity, we firmly believe that education is a cornerstone of positive societal change, and that includes dismantling systemic racism. We wholeheartedly support and applaud the efforts being undertaken in public education to promote anti-racism and inclusion. We are in agreement with the assertion of Parents of Black Children that “the government of Ontario… must be held accountable to their own legislation such as the Better Schools and Outcome Act and the Education Act that requires competency from principals and educators in equity. This is a human right.”
In today’s diverse and interconnected world, it is crucial that our educational institutions reflect and embrace the richness of our global community. It is through anti-racism efforts that we can help students develop critical thinking skills, empathy, and a broader perspective on the world around them. By acknowledging the experiences and contributions of historically excluded communities, we not only honour their stories and recognize their contributions, but also cultivate a generation of leaders equipped to tackle complex societal challenges with compassion and understanding.
We firmly reject any attempts to silence or undermine the vital work of anti-racism in public education. Our commitment to this cause is unwavering, and we encourage all stakeholders to join us in standing up for a more inclusive, equitable, and just educational system that provides learning environments that are meaningful, rigorous, and joyful for all students.
In solidarity,
Parents for Diversity
Protest Demands | Parents of Black Children
