10th Annual Rainbow Youth Forum 10 Years and the Journey Continues!

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Annual Rainbow Youth Forum

** ** _ 10 Years and the Journey Continues! _ ** **

 Thursday, November 27, 2014

** ** Confederation Education Centre ** ** 1645 Woodroffe Avenue ** **

 9:15 am

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 2:30 pm

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The 10th Annual Rainbow Youth Forum celebrates acceptance, diversity and education.  Matt Gagnier, Instructional Coach - Inclusive, Safe and Caring Programs says, “The Rainbow Youth Forum serves to address equity and inclusive education in OCDSB schools in order for students and staff to feel a positive sense of belonging and ensure greater student success. By participating in workshops throughout the day, students and staff will continue to leverage diversity back in their schools."

The Rainbow Youth Forum is held in collaboration between the OCDSB and the Rainbow Service Provider’s Network, which is a network of community agencies who promote inclusive services for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Two-Spirit, Queer, Questioning (LGBTTQQ+) youth.”

This year’s theme is “ ** _ 10 Years and the Journey Continues _ ** .” The theme is a reminder that the OCDSB is committed as an organization to supporting our LGBTQ community, a commitment that the district has made for the last 10 years. We know that when diversity is embraced in our schools and our work sites it promotes a safer more inclusive learning and work environment, which benefits everyone.

The day long event allows those in attendance to come together to learn, to share experiences and to celebrate their individuality.

Educators and students will interact with dynamic speakers, listen to inspiring stories, and receive valuable information from a variety of educational workshops. The student workshops will focus on education, action and self-empowerment.

The forum is aligned with our efforts to embed character education and cultural proficiency into our daily practice.