Petition to ask the STF to support teacher’s refusal of Bill 137
Petition to ask the STF to support teacher’s refusal of Bill 137
The Issue
Context: Bill 137 has been in place in Saskatchewan for almost two years. This bill has put trans youth, trans educators, and trans families at risk while the use of the notwithstanding clause has intimidated some from engaging in community action to repeal Bill 137. Many teachers feel strongly about supporting trans students in their care for them but worry about putting their own jobs and families at risk by refusing to comply.
Action: We believe that Bill 137 violates our Code of Professional Ethics as teachers and are asking that the STF make a public declaration to support any teacher who refuses to follow Bill 137.
Details: Code 6.2.6 says teachers must “treat each student justly, considerately and appropriately in accordance with the beliefs of the profession.” (STF, 2023, pg.7) The following commentary (points 2-3), states that “It is the duty of the teacher, within the contexts of the school program, to care for all students, enhance their well-being, and protect them from harm of any kind. Human rights legislation requires equity and inclusion regardless of race, national or other origin, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, family status, disability, genetic characteristics, or a conviction for which a pardon has been granted or a record suspended, or other protected ground as required by law.” (STF, 2023, pg.7) There are many other referenceable sources on human rights to discuss how Bill 137 is illegal and violates human rights. However, we choose to center code 6.2.6 because it comes from our guidelines as teachers in Saskatchewan and members of the STF.
How to sign it: If you are a teacher, and want the STF to take action to stop Bill 137 and provide you with support in your action, sign the petition. If you are a parent or community member who hopes to demonstrate how important this is to the educational stakeholders of our province, please comment and share the petition widely.
Conclusion: Bill 137 is illegal. Action is possible when we decide it matters. It matters. The STF must demonstrate this to their members.
602
The Issue
Context: Bill 137 has been in place in Saskatchewan for almost two years. This bill has put trans youth, trans educators, and trans families at risk while the use of the notwithstanding clause has intimidated some from engaging in community action to repeal Bill 137. Many teachers feel strongly about supporting trans students in their care for them but worry about putting their own jobs and families at risk by refusing to comply.
Action: We believe that Bill 137 violates our Code of Professional Ethics as teachers and are asking that the STF make a public declaration to support any teacher who refuses to follow Bill 137.
Details: Code 6.2.6 says teachers must “treat each student justly, considerately and appropriately in accordance with the beliefs of the profession.” (STF, 2023, pg.7) The following commentary (points 2-3), states that “It is the duty of the teacher, within the contexts of the school program, to care for all students, enhance their well-being, and protect them from harm of any kind. Human rights legislation requires equity and inclusion regardless of race, national or other origin, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, family status, disability, genetic characteristics, or a conviction for which a pardon has been granted or a record suspended, or other protected ground as required by law.” (STF, 2023, pg.7) There are many other referenceable sources on human rights to discuss how Bill 137 is illegal and violates human rights. However, we choose to center code 6.2.6 because it comes from our guidelines as teachers in Saskatchewan and members of the STF.
How to sign it: If you are a teacher, and want the STF to take action to stop Bill 137 and provide you with support in your action, sign the petition. If you are a parent or community member who hopes to demonstrate how important this is to the educational stakeholders of our province, please comment and share the petition widely.
Conclusion: Bill 137 is illegal. Action is possible when we decide it matters. It matters. The STF must demonstrate this to their members.
602
Supporter Voices
Petition created on June 13, 2025