b'students insistence, it was decided that they needed to sharethese efforts were transparency, allyship, honesty, and trust. The their experiences and feelings with the entire staff. While thereadministration identified these guiding principles as critical to were allies in the school, they knew it was important for the entirecreating meaningful, lasting change. school to address the issue together to create lasting change. So, one day in March, alongside their team, Vicky, Fatou and AssataAs Fatou put it, Black History Month cannot just end at 3:30 woke up early to address the staff of Collge Bliveau at theirp.m. on Friday, February 28, to never be spoken about again Professional Development Day. They spoke of how it was equallyuntil the following year. Normally, that was the time when the important for students and adults to reflect on their words andposters would be taken down, as if the issue ended there. Now, actions, regardless of their intentions. Certain phrases and idioms,the conversation appears to be growing beyond a poster display such as the pot calling the kettle black, are no longer acceptablein February or a discussion with friends. Vicky, Fatou, Assata to use, and harmful comments cannot be brushed off as justand the varsity girls basketball teams courage in speaking up jokes. Words are powerful, and even changes that appear small tohas invited many others into the anti-racism conversation. It also some are critical to creating a culture of equity and inclusion.inspired fellow young people to understand that they have agency and deserve to be safe and respected regardless of their identity. In the weeks following the Professional Development Day, the students noticed a positive change in their school community.The students actions have also sparked concrete action within While the racist remarks at their provincial basketball games stilltheir school and the broader community. As a result of their occurred, what did change was that every time such an incidenttenacity, the MHSAA has now drafted and will implement new arose, their administrators called the Manitoba High Schoolguidelines for expected conduct from players, staff and families. Athletic Association (MHSAA) to file a formal complaint.When asked how they felt reflecting on the events, the students said they are proud of what they have achieved, but they also Within Collge Bliveau, the community began making a moreknow that this is just the beginning. concerted effort to foster a safe and inclusive environment. GET REAL, a Canadian non-profit focused on combatting 2SLGBTQ+In February, when they initially began having these conversations discrimination, racism, and bullying, was invited to do awith their administrators, they did not imagine their actions workshop with the entire student body and staff. The Anti-Racismwould have such a widespread and profound impact. The Committee for staff continued to gain more and more members. bravery these students displayed in sharing their truth opened The Committee also created a tool kit to educate all currentthe door to meaningful connections. Their voice as students and future staff members about the schools commitment toinvited administrators to reflect and make strides toward positive fostering equity and a sense of belonging. Staff read books onsystemic change. At the end of the day, a more equitable, diverse anti-racism, including Ijeoma Oluos So You Want to Talk Aboutcommunity is a safer and better place for all of us. In the words of Race, and were asked to share their honest feedback on theirAssata, Cest la diffrence qui nous rends jolie.questions, feelings, and needs moving forward. At the heart of 12'