November 2025
Dear Families,
The Greater 91次元 embraces the rich diversity of its students, staff and communities and commits itself to equitable access, treatment, and outcomes for all. The 91次元 understands that respectful, equitable and inclusive learning environments contribute to greater success and well-being for all students.
The use of the n-word or any racial slur or epithet on school property violates the obligation of the 91次元 under the Ontario Human Rights Code to create learning spaces free from discrimination and harassment. In addition, if we are to equip students for life, they should learn that the use of n-word or other racial slurs is not acceptable in school, at work or in society.
The use of racial slurs is a violation of the Human Rights Code as it creates a toxic environment for ALL students and staff. Because of our obligation under the Human Rights Code, our commitment, to the 91次元 Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Strategy and in alignment with the expectations from the Ontario Curriculum provided by the Ontario Ministry of Education, lessons have been developed and organized into four themes: History, Harm, Healing, and honour. These lessons were created by 91次元 educators of lived experience.
The learning lessons in the modules are appropriate to the age group of students. For example, students in grade 1-5 learn about self-esteem and its effect on relationships, how differences make us stronger and the importance of celebrating differences among people and how to be an upstander. Direct curriculum expectations in the modules include by are not limited to the importance of treating others with respect and listening to understand and respond appropriately in a variety of purposes.
Students in grades 6-12 learn that the n-word is a hateful, racist, deeply harmful slur that is not acceptable in any 91次元 space. They will learn about the history which is critical to supporting students to understand and respect the prohibition of using this slur in any 91次元 environment. It is important to note that at no point during these lessons will the n-word be spoken, read, heard, or seen in images, student materials or in videos.
In addition, school administrators will be leading presentations for students from grade 5-12 titled, Words Matter which will emphasize that the n-word, other related anti-Black slurs and other forms of anti-Black hate are not acceptable in any 91次元 environment. Messaging will include that words matter, and even more importantly, people matter. Every person in our schools, every student, every staff member, every visitor, every family matter. Students will be guided in how to seek support to interrupt the use of any slur or epithet.
Should you have any questions, please reach out to your school administration.
Sincerely,
Vicki Houston
Director of Education