Protestors Demand Revisions to Alberta’s Education Laws

On Sunday, protestors assembled at City Hall in Calgary for a rally titled “Save Alberta’s Education.” The gathering addressed concerns over the province’s recent revisions to educational policies, specifically targeting the new book ban and laws pertaining to transgender rights. The laws impose restrictions on gender-affirming health care for youth under the age of 16 and mandate parental consent or notification when students wish to change their names or pronouns within schools. Additionally, the legislation prohibits trans girls and women from participating in female amateur sports.

Calgary-Foothills MLA Court Ellingson voiced strong opposition to these measures, stating, “It is not fair what this government is doing to trans kids and to teachers through those anti-trans rules that have been put in place. We’re forcing teachers to out kids.”

In response to the widespread criticism, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith expressed her government’s readiness to defend the laws in court. She indicated a willingness to invoke the Notwithstanding Clause to override certain Charter Rights, a move that has raised significant concerns among educators and advocates.

According to Jason Shilling, President of the Alberta Teachers’ Association, “We recognize that we have 2SLGBTQ+ students and staff in our schools who deserve to be their true authentic selves at school. We’re concerned that this clause would prohibit that and make schools not the safe spaces they should be for them.”

Protestors also highlighted the need for increased funding for both students and teachers. As negotiations continue, Alberta teachers have until 17:00 on Monday to cast their votes on a tentative agreement with the provincial government. The proposed deal includes a 12 percent salary increase spread over four years and provisions related to COVID-19 vaccinations. Furthermore, the government has committed to hiring an additional 3,000 teachers within three years.

Should the teachers reject the agreement, a strike is planned for October 6. CTV News has reached out to the premier’s office for comments regarding the ongoing situation.

As discussions unfold, the implications of these educational policies and the responses from both educators and the government will play a critical role in shaping the future landscape of education in Alberta.