All School Communities Can Celebrate Pride

While Pride is an exciting time of year for many people, it can also raise concerns around safety and inclusion for 2SLGBTQ+ students and staff members. In regions with restrictive legislation, educators may feel trepidation around how to celebrate Pride while ensuring compliance with all policies, laws, and amendments. No matter where you are located, all school communities can celebrate in ways that are safe and affirming for students and staff alike. 

We have put together a list of fun Pride ideas to help get you started:  

Colourful Displays

• Messages of love, rainbows, Pride, and fun are great for any and all ages – for example, sidewalk chalk art
• Put up posters, like these from Tipler Teaches

Student-led lessons and activities 

• If it is organized and prepared by students, there is no external approval needed. 
• These activities can be planned during school time, using school resources, and with support from staff members.  

History of Pride 

• Talking about a community is different from “primarily and explicitly” discussing gender identity, and/or sexual orientation – if you can teach other aspects of history, you can teach about Pride.  
• Check out resources like Canadian Pride Historical Society for lesson ideas! 

Expansive Pride 

• Don’t feel like you must limit Pride activities to the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Especially with younger grades, it can be helpful to include activities that centre “Pride in our identities”. This might look like dress up days where students are encouraged to wear clothing that speaks to their Pride of values, accomplishments, or heritage.  

Staff Inclusion 

• If asking students to dress up isn’t accessible, have staff dress up! 
• Some ideas include dressing in a different colour of the rainbow each day, highlighting the colours of a lesser-known Pride flag each day, dressing up as 2SLGBTQ+ characters, etc.  

Incidental Conversations 

• There is no need to shy away from topics or conversations that are student-led and come up organically. If you are unsure, talk to your administration, school safe contact, or district/division SOGI consultant. 

Thank you for the ways you continue to support safer, more inclusive school communities for all students. Wishing you and your loved ones a happy Pride!