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BRAMPTON, Monday, February 12, 2024- The Ontario Alliance of Black School Educators (ONABSE) acknowledges and welcomes the recent announcement made by Minister Stephen Lecce and his team on February 8, 2024, regarding the inclusion of mandatory Black History learning in grades 7, 8, and 10 within Ontario's education system. ONABSE recognizes this addition to the curriculum as a positive step towards addressing anti-Black racism and emphasizing the humanity, dignity, and diversity of Black, African, and Afro-Caribbean students, staff, and families in the province.
While ONABSE has long been at the forefront of advocating for systemic change in the education system to combat anti-Black racism, it is essential to express that our collaboration with the Ministry was abruptly terminated after the summer of 2023, without prior consultation or involvement in the decision-making process leading to this announcement. Despite years of ongoing efforts to foster an authentic partnership with the Minister and the Ministry, the absence of consultation has given rise to concerns and the perception of a deliberate oversight.
ONABSE accentuates the significance of the inclusion of Black History in the curriculum but emphasizes that this inclusion represents only a modest stride towards addressing the deep-rooted issue of anti-Black racism. In alignment with the longstanding recommendations from advocates within Canada's diverse Black community, ONABSE urges the development of a comprehensive, mandatory Afrocentric African-Canadian curriculum spanning grades K-12. Furthermore, we call for mandatory culturally responsive and relevant pedagogical training for all staff working in Ontario's schools.
It is important to note that the Black community has contributed to Ontario for centuries and has a heritage extending millennia beyond Canada's borders, destined to endure as an integral part of society. A comprehensive African-Canadian curriculum seamlessly integrated across all grades and subjects will significantly advance efforts to combat anti-Black racism within Ontario's education system and broader society, fostering a sense of belonging, inclusion, and respect among youth.
ONABSE requests the Ministry of Education's engagement in authentic partnerships with us and other prominent community advocates and experts, including Black educators with lived experience, as well as anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and Afrocentric perspectives, to ensure the successful implementation of this initiative. Moreover, we emphasize the necessity of sustained resources—beyond one-time professional development—allocated to all school boards to ensure education professionals receive adequate training and support in delivering this content effectively.
Furthermore, ONABSE remains steadfast in its hope that sufficient accountability measures will be implemented to address any missteps promptly. Recognizing that the curriculum is adapted at local and individual levels, consistent checks and balances are imperative to ensure the implementation and the effective delivery of the curriculum.
In conclusion, ONABSE remains committed to advancing equity, inclusivity, and anti-racism within Ontario's education system and is prepared to collaborate with all stakeholders in achieving these vital objectives.
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