Dear supporters,

Thank you for standing with us in the fight to protect dignity, safety, and belonging for 2SLGBTQI+ students in publicly funded Catholic schools. Today, we’re writing with an important update and to reaffirm our commitment.

Earlier this month, the Archdiocese of Toronto released a deeply hurtful statement in honour of the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus that, rather than reflecting the compassion and mercy associated with Christ’s heart, chose instead to target and exclude members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community. The statement dismissed the identities of many families, students, and staff at the TCDSB and beyond. It promoted fear-based language and reinforced a dangerous falsehood: that affirming students in their identity is incompatible with Catholic faith.

This is not the message of Jesus, nor is it aligned with our public education system's legal and ethical responsibilities. When faith-based language is used to undermine equity and inclusion, it causes real harm to our school communities.

Despite this discouragement, we must move forward lawfully. We will be working with caring staff at the Toronto Catholic District School Board, through the 2SLGBTQI+ Advisory Committee, to help ensure that:

• All policies and practices are aligned with PPM 119
• Religious accommodation processes are transparent, accessible, and compliant with the Code
• Curriculum decisions reflect both the legal requirements of Ontario’s Education Act and the lived realities of all students

TCDSB is now under Ministry supervision

As of June 27, 2025, the TCDSB is officially under the supervision of the Ministry of Education, due to a projected $75 million deficit and systemic failures. This opens the door to renewed accountability and reform, not just financial, but ethical and educational.

What you can do

• Share this update and let others know this work is far from over.
• Speak up when religious language is used to justify exclusion. It is not a genuine act of faith to cause harm, especially through policy and access to public services.
• Continue supporting local educators, families, and students working for fairness and inclusion from within.

We remain committed to seeing a Catholic education system that is rooted in love, accountable to law, and affirming of all.