We, the undersigned, demand accountability from the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board (DPCDSB) regarding ongoing racial discrimination, sexual harassment, and lack of appropriate response to serious incidents involving students, particularly in cases where racial disparities and biased handling are evident.

Our children deserve an environment where their safety, dignity, and rights are protected. This petition specifically highlights incidents that have occurred at a school from November 07, 2024 until December 12, 2024 under the DPCDSB, where my child, a Black student was subjected to repeated sexual harassment and assault by a peer. Despite clear reports and requests for action from our family, the school administration failed to respond appropriately, and the offender was not held accountable in a timely or meaningful manner.

The failure of the DPCDSB to address the concerns raised, coupled with their apparent focus on protecting the offending student, has left the our child and family feeling unsafe and unsupported. This mishandling of the situation is compounded by the racial disparities in how Black students are treated in comparison to their white peers.

The system that was supposed to protect my child instead caused further harm, failing to act on reports of harassment and assault, providing inadequate support, and dismissing the applicant’s mother’s concerns.

We demand that:

-The DPCDSB take immediate action to investigate this case thoroughly, including an independent review of the incident and how it was handled by school staff.

-Immediate measures be implemented to ensure Black students, and all students, are treated with respect and are safe from harassment or discrimination.

-The school board implement stronger policies, training, and oversight to prevent further incidents of racial discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct.

-Transparent communication and support be provided to families involved in these incidents to ensure their rights are fully respected and upheld.

-The offending student be withdrawn from my child's class and placed into another so that my child can return back to school. We need to ensure the safety and emotional well-being of my children.

Why This Matters

if the role was reversed, such leniency would not have taken place.No child should feel unsafe at school due to discrimination or harassment. We stand together to ensure that the voices of those who have been silenced are heard and that our children can go to school without fear of being treated unfairly.

Please join us in calling for justice and accountability.