Supporters, We need to update you on the ongoing situation at the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board (DPCDSB), where inconsistent and misguided decisions have created confusion and alienation within the school community.

This will be discussed in their Board meeting tomorrow.

Not long ago, the Board allowed flags to be raised for community observances, just like most other public institutions. However, they abruptly changed this policy in April 2024, leaving some buildings with an empty third flagpole—creating a hollowness for students, staff, and families who once felt seen.

Organizations, including school boards, are free to adapt their policies to raise flags such as the Indigenous, and African for Black History Month, or rainbow flags for Pride Month to show community members they are seen and valued. They can even place multiple flags on one pole when flag etiquette is observed. However, the DPCDSB seems to  be misusing federal building guidelines to prevent inclusion.

Compounded Confusion

Instead of addressing this issue transparently and logically, the trustees have compounded the confusion. At a recent committee meeting, rather than resolving the matter and reinstating policies that reflect support for students, the trustees voted to create a brand-new logo flag that has never existed before. This nonsensical decision avoids addressing the real issue and instead creates a distraction from the meaningful representation students need.

Ignoring Data

This series of events reveals a troubling lack of direction and responsiveness from the Board. Educational institutions in Ontario must strive for consistency, equity, and a commitment to the mental health and well-being of all students. Listening to students, especially when we have tangible data such as student census results and national school climate surveys comparing Catholic and public school mental health outcomes, is essential.

We need your help to hold the DPCDSB accountable for their empty promises. Please contact the trustees today and let them know we expect them to listen to their students and put evidence-based decision-making ahead of fear.

Contact all trustees

Tell them to reject the amendments for a logo flag and instead align with the rest of the province to allow school community observances at ALL schools.

darryl.dsouza@dpcdsb.org, brea.corbet@dpcdsb.org, herman.viloria@dpcdsb.org, anisha.thomas@dpcdsb.org, paula.dametto-giovannozzi@dpcdsb.org, luz.delrosario@dpcdsb.org, shawn.xaviour@dpcdsb.org, bruno.iannicca@dpcdsb.org, stefano.pascucci@dpcdsb.org, thomas.thomas@dpcdsb.org, mario.pascucci@dpcdsb.org

Your voice matters—Thank You for your continued support.