b'Diversity, Equity, Inclusion &Anti-RacismHere are a few highlights of howEducation LRSD has put these goals into action: Student VoiceCentring student voice has been pivotal to the work around issues of equity that has been taking place in LRSD. InspiredIn the 2021-2022 school year,by the calls to action from the Beyond the Horizon Youth Summit in May 2021 and continued conversations in thelistening to the voices of our2021-2022 school year, the students experiences helpedcommunity in an equity-informedshape the professional learning of divisional leadership. manner compelled us to act withStudents also took centre stage in promoting learning on urgency to hasten work on oura divisional level. In February, LRSD launched the divisional Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP)DEI Storytime, which saw special guests offer weekly virtual sessions in English and French of books that highlighted priorities for 2019-2023 thatthemes of diversity, equity and inclusion. When the first guest address issues of systemic racism reader had to postpone, Richardan author, illustrator, and in a proactive, capacity-building,Grade 5 student at Frontenac Schoolstepped up and shared excerpts from one of his graphic novels. He shared his work, and systematic way.what inspires him and how he overcomes challenges with the students and staff who tuned in. Richard was one of many Based on dialogue with equity-seeking groups andstudents who shared their voice during the DEI Storytime. the broader community the Louis Riel School Division (LRSD) serves, the division launched its Diversity,Another example of students promoting learning for their Equity, Inclusion (DEI) and Anti-Racism Initiative peers across LRSD was their work on divisional assemblies. on Oct. 5, 2021.On March 21, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, students and staff across the division Feedback from our community, specificallyparticipated in a student-led virtual assembly focused on those who are Indigenous, Black and People ofdiversity, equity and inclusion. Colour, illuminated issues of ongoing inequity and systemic racism in LRSD, said Christian Michalik,The LRSD community also kicked off Pride Week/Month on Superintendent. Despite genuine investments, effortsMay 26 by learning alongside student presenters in English and commitments, we still have a lot of work to do toand French. During the assembly, early and senior year ensure all students thrive and flourish in our schools.students shared what Pride is, how to be an ally, the meanings That must be our focus moving forward.behind the different flags and much more. The event was an informative celebration of the *2SLGTBQIA+ community.The Senior Leadership Team identified a number of operating goals for 2021-2023 and work to takeWhen we create spaces for our students to use their voices action began immediately with the establishmentin powerful ways, we create positive changes in our school of a DEI and Anti-Racism Education Team (Office).communities, said Michelle Jean-Paul. We have seen how, The team includes Darcy Cormack, Assistantregardless of their ages, young people are able to engage both Superintendent of DEI and Anti-Racism Services,their peers and adults working in LRSD in essential learning.Michelle-Jean Paul, Divisional Principal of DEI We enhance the culture of equity and inclusion both by inviting and Anti-Racism Services, and Bobbie-Jo Leclair, students into leadership roles and by taking action on the items Divisional Vice-Principal of Indigenous Education. they bring to our attention.22'