Canadian Government funds SOGI-inclusive education through ARC Foundation

The Canadian government, through the Department of Women and Gender Equality Canada (WAGE) under Minister Marci Ien, has awarded nearly one million dollars to ARC Foundation (ARC) to further advance the equality of 2SLGBTQ+ people in Canada. This funding will enable ARC Foundation to identify, examine and address anti-2SLGBTQ+ sentiment surrounding SOGI-inclusive education, to better support educators as they work to improve the safety, wellbeing, and inclusion of 2SLGBTQ+ students and families through SOGI 123. SOGI 123 has been proven to reduce bullying and increase safety for all students by equipping K-12 teachers with the tools, resources and supports to create Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI)-inclusive schools. 

“This funding comes at a critical moment when educators and communities are facing increasing challenges in advancing inclusion and safety for 2SLGBTQ+ students,” stated ARC Foundation’s Executive Director, Reg Krake. “As ARC’s largest funded project to date, this initiative will equip educators and communities with the tools and strategies they need to create affirming spaces for all students. We appreciate the support of Minister Ien and WAGE to help us foster SOGI-inclusive education through SOGI 123.”

This project-based funding will enable ARC to conduct community consultations to gain an understanding of anti-2SLGBTQ+ sentiment in various political and social climates; develop tools to counter misinformation and disinformation; address ethno-specific resistance utilizing an intersectional and community-led approach; and equip educators and communities with resources and strategies for advancing SOGI-inclusive education.

“We know that misinformation about SOGI-inclusive education is on the rise in communities across Canada,” shared ARC’s Director of National Programs, Scout Gray. “This project offers a unique opportunity to address misinformation and engage with diverse communities to increase the intersectionality of SOGI 123, helping more students and families see themselves reflected in the resources that we offer.”

The funding will be provided through the Department for Women and Gender Equality over the next two years, beginning immediately. More information about this funding commitment from WAGE can be found in their January 31st news release.

About ARC Foundation
Established in 2007, ARC Foundation (ARC) creates breakthrough collaboration models for reducing 2SLGBTQ+ discrimination in schools. ARC’s primary focus is SOGI 123, which helps educators make schools safer and more inclusive for students of all sexual orientations and gender identities (SOGI) through policies and procedures, guidance on creating inclusive environments and teaching resources.

www.arcfoundation.ca | www.SOGIeducation.org

Media Contact
Heather Vause
info@arcfoundation.ca