Addressing Islamophobia
We remain committed to combating Islamophobia, racism and discrimination in all its forms.
The Limestone District School Board emphasizes the importance of educating students about respect, equity, and diversity. We continue to work with our school communities to promote safe and inclusive learning and working environments for all staff and students.
Questions to Consider...
How can I stand with and support others - especially Muslim members of our community - who are feeling vulnerable?
What can I do as an individual, and as part of a community, to recognize and value the diverse identities and contributions of Muslims here and across Canada?
- What are some meaningful actions I do to interrupt instances of xenophobia and hate?
How Has Islamophobia Impacted Muslim Canadian Students?
”Loves Me Not”, a video poem , tells the story of a young Muslim girl who wears the hijab. The poem begins with the girl, her hijab constructed with colourful petals. She holds a flower in her hand, but as she suffers from Islamophobia her flower begins to die. “Everywhere she looked, people would stare,” the poem states. “They asked, ‘Is that something your dad forced you to wear’?”
The poem was inspired by Islamophobia endured by the writers as they attended school in Toronto. The video continues to show the lasting impact of discrimination.”
- “8 Muslim Youth Making an Impact in Canada" is a documentary that examines the struggles of Muslim teens as they transition from Islamic school to a public school. It is a tool to initiate a conversation about Islamophobia and its effect on Muslim youth. To incorporate the documentary, a specially developed Educator’s resource guide for grade 7-12 is available
What Can We Do, As Educators, To Work to Deconstruct Bias and Stereotypes In Our Schools?
"How are Muslims represented in the stories we know and tell in our classrooms? Who is telling the stories we share? When are these stories shared with students? Who is considered and seen as being Muslim? Why is thinking about stories as dangerous and wondrous important?"
Additional Supports To Promote Equity and Inclusion
Please note, it is very important to consider your relationship and the student's relationship to the events in the news. Ensure you have established a courageous and intentional space, in this time of grief.
Rivers of Hope: The Rivers of Hope Toolkit shares practical information and resources for responding to incidents of hate. With a focus on Islamopobia, it includes bystander intervention tips and options for reporting.
How classrooms can support students through the London events: https://www.muslimeducatorsontario.org/resources
Islamophobia is... video series for grades 6+
Facing Canda (Facing History Blog): Supporting Students in the Aftermath of the Targeted Car Attack on a Muslim Family in London, Ont
Helping Students Deal with Trauma Related to Geopolitical Violence and Islamophobia
Tessellate Institute: Examining Islamophobia in Ontario Public Schools
Learning for Justice: Debunking Stereotypes About Muslims and Islam | Learning for Justice
Learning for Justice: Countering Islamophobia Through Education | Learning for Justice
Learning for Justice: Countering Islamophobia | Learning for Justice
Culturally Responsive Pedagogy
You can show your support for this family and the Muslim community in Canada by signing up for a free workshop by the National Council of Canadian Muslims. There are three different workshops available: “Muslim community organizations,” “School, Employers, Government, Service Providers,” and “Students and youth.” The workshop helps promote equity and inclusion by empowering Canadian Muslim communities. The workshop also addresses Islamophobia and what you can do about it.
We are Here to Offer Support
Community supports and resources are also available and information is posted on the board website.
Muslim students may also call or text the Naseeha Youth Helpline at 1-866-627-3342 or visit its website.