Catholic Teachers Mark Pride 2026 with a Commitment to Dignity and Inclusion

“Ontario’s Catholic teachers proudly support 2SLGBTQIA+ students, colleagues, families, friends, and neighbours.

Pride Month is a time to celebrate diversity, affirm the inherent dignity of every person, and recommit ourselves to justice, equity, and inclusion. For Catholic teachers, this commitment is deeply rooted in our faith, which calls us to recognize the image of God in every person and to extend love, compassion, and respect to all without exception.

At a time when 2SLGBTQIA+ communities are facing rising hate, hostility, rhetoric, and discrimination across North America, schools must respond with courage, compassion, and clarity. Silence is not neutrality when young people are looking for safety, support, and hope. That is why OECTA continues to call on every Catholic school board in Ontario to fly the Pride flag throughout the month of June.

The Pride flag is not a political symbol. It is a visible sign of welcome, safety, belonging, and affirmation. For students, staff, and families who have too often been marginalized, discriminated against, or silenced, it sends a clear and powerful message: you are seen, you are valued, you are respected, and you are loved.

Creating inclusive, welcoming, and affirming Catholic schools is not contrary to our faith; it is a living expression of it. Supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ students and staff with dignity, compassion, and respect for human rights is an important part of publicly funded Catholic education.

This Pride Month, OECTA proudly reaffirms its commitment to upholding the dignity and human rights of all those within our Catholic school communities.

Happy Pride Month!"

— René Jansen in de Wal
President, Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association