Nova Scotia’s Minister of Education announced that an anticipated revision to guidelines supporting transgender and non-binary students is deemed unnecessary due to a recently introduced code of conduct that addresses the same issues. However, a newly established coalition of advocates disagrees with this stance and urges the province to adopt a firmer position on gender-related matters.
Em Bailey, a representative of the Gender Justice Coalition, emphasized the importance of government intervention on this issue, stating that it is crucial for the authorities to advocate for better treatment of transgender and non-binary children and youth in school settings. Bailey highlighted the need for improved services and support for these individuals.
In early 2023, the Department of Education engaged in consultations with students and stakeholders to gather input for updating the document named “Guidelines for Supporting Transgender and Gender-nonconforming Students.” Despite having a draft update ready later that year, the guidelines have remained unchanged since their initial release in 2014, leading to concerns about outdated information and lack of clarity in addressing current societal changes.
Comparing gender policies in Alberta and New Brunswick, Bailey pointed out a shift towards social conservatism that has raised alarms among advocates for transgender rights. Recent policy changes in these provinces have sparked controversies, including requirements for parental consent regarding students’ preferred names and pronouns, which have faced legal challenges.
Education Minister Brendan Maguire confirmed that the focus has shifted towards implementing the new code of conduct released in April to address issues of violence in schools, which he believes adequately covers gender-related concerns. Maguire emphasized the importance of ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all students, staff, and teachers, with strict adherence to the guidelines and code of conduct.
The Gender Justice Coalition plans to send a letter to Minister Maguire outlining demands for policy changes supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, curricular updates, and a comprehensive strategy against gender-based discrimination. Political leaders and stakeholders have expressed varying levels of satisfaction with the government’s handling of the issue, with calls for further engagement and prioritization of school gender policies.