TO THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND:

REASONS FOR THIS PETITION:

1. Lack of Legal Protection: The current Prince Edward Island Education Act does not explicitly include the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which the Child and Youth Advocate has identified as a major gap in student safety.

2. Rights Literacy Gap: Students are currently expected to rely on "adult observation" for safety. When students are not taught their rights, they are less equipped to recognize or speak up against harm, bullying, or unfair treatment.

3. National Recognition: November 20th is recognized across Canada as National Child Day. Despite this, many PEI students are unaware of the significance of this date or the rights it protects.

4. Proven Success: Initiatives like UNICEF’s "Rights Respecting Schools" have been proven to drastically lower bullying rates and increase a sense of belonging by teaching children their rights and the rights of their peers.

THE PETITION:

We, the undersigned, respectfully request that the Legislative Assembly of Prince Edward Island:

• Amend the Education Act to formally incorporate the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

• Mandate an annual "Kids Rights Week" in all Island schools during the week of November 20th (National Child Day) to ensure every student is educated on their rights to be heard, to be safe, and to be protected.