The North Central Labour Council (NCLC) supports work environments where all workers feel secure, safe, and supported. The actions of the Prince George school board trustees over the last few months, and even more recently in the last week, have removed these conditions for over 1,000 of the associated members who are employed within the school district as well as children and families. NCLC reaffirms our support for all members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community.
It is concerning that the publicly elected board of education appears to demonstrate an unwillingness to be held publicly accountable. At a meeting, a Prince George man spoke transphobic and concerning messages about teachers and children. He was then thanked for his bravery by the board, denying the rights of LGBTQIAS+ staff and students.
When one of our affiliate presidents requested to speak at the last public meeting on this topic, the request was denied. When one of our local schools was irresponsibly denigrated, the trustees of the board were silent. This is unacceptable.
Through all these attacks on public education that have occurred under their watch, they have remained silent to their employees, their representatives and the media. As publicly elected officials, we urge you to reflect on the importance of accountability for good, stable governments to the public education system and the values of that system.
Matt Baker, President of North Central Labour Council
Candis Johnson, Vice President of North Central Labour Council
