As a concerned citizen, parent, and community member, I am deeply troubled by the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board's decision not to fly the "Every Child Matters" flag in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. I am asking for the Ministry of Education to intervene immediately and reverse this decision and demonstrate a genuine commitment to Truth and Reconciliation.

The Ontario curriculum rightly includes the history of residential schools and the path to Truth and Reconciliation. But if our educational institutions refuse to uphold these teachings through visible and meaningful actions, the curriculum is performative. Flying the "Every Child Matters" flag is a vital symbolic act that reinforces the importance of this history and acknowledges the ongoing impact of residential schools on Indigenous communities. If reconciliation is taught in the classroom, it must be reflected in action throughout our schools.

This decision is particularly upsetting given the tragic role that Catholic institutions and the Vatican played in the operation of residential schools, which caused and continues to cause immense suffering and intergenerational trauma for Indigenous Peoples. For a Catholic school board to refuse such a fundamental gesture of reconciliation on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is deeply offensive. It shows a failure to learn from history and embrace accountability. 

Our schools must be places where all children feel seen, valued, and where the pursuit of justice and understanding is equal for all children.

I am asking:

1. The Ministry of Education to exercise its governance and overturn the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board's decision.
2. The Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board reverse its decision and commit to flying the "Every Child Matters" flag on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and in each subsequent year.
3. The Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board to issue a public statement affirming its commitment to the principles of Truth and Reconciliation and outlining concrete steps it will take to demonstrate this commitment.