The controversy surrounding SOGI 123 in schools has been a hot political topic, especially between BC’s NDP and BC’s Conservatives.
As a BC student who identifies as non-binary, I can attest to the positive impact SOGI has had on my school experience. Over the years, SOGI has allowed teachers to better support me by respecting my preferred name and pronouns, making me feel safer and more accepted in the school environment.
At first it may seem that the controversy is driven by concerns from some parents who believe that SOGI 123 promotes inappropriate or adult content to students. However, this view is mistaken. SOGI is not a curriculum; rather, it is a tool that helps educators better support and understand their students.
Of course, it is essential to ensure that materials related to SOGI are age-appropriate and tailored to the developmental stages of students. But SOGI should not be removed altogether. It is a crucial resource for making students feel safe and supported in school, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation.
If we want to continue fostering an environment where students feel safe to be themselves, we must keep SOGI 123 in schools. However, we should also ensure that the materials and lessons are carefully managed to be appropriate for each grade level.
To help this happen we can donate to the ARC Foundation, which funds SOGI 123. Write to the editors like I am doing and contact your local MLA.
Aeron Jacob is a grade 12 student at Brooks Secondary School in Powell River.
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