FOR RELEASE – February 11, 2025
The Yukon Child and Youth Advocate Office (YCAO) is hearing from students, educators and families about their experiences with the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) Policy in Yukon schools, as part of an ongoing comprehensive review launched in June 2024. This review, requested by the Minister of Education, seeks to assess the effectiveness of the policy in fostering inclusive school environments.
“The response to the engagement so far has been positive, and we are encouraged by the strong motivation to participate,” said Annette King, Yukon Child and Youth Advocate. “We urge everyone with an interest to take part in the review by completing the online survey, which will remain open until the end of April 2025.”
The review process includes both an online survey and in-person focus groups, inviting participants to share their feedback on the communication, comprehension, and implementation of the SOGI Policy in Yukon schools. Participants are also encouraged to share their personal experiences, particularly those directly impacted by the policy.
“We want to hear the voices, experiences and opinions of all Yukon children, youth, families, community members, and educational professionals,” said King. “Their voices, experiences and insight are essential to this review. The feedback we receive will play a key role in shaping our recommendations to the Department of Education and school communities, helping them meet their obligations to uphold children’s rights and to ensure inclusive school environments for some of our most vulnerable children and youth.”
YCAO recognizes the crucial role that SOGI policies play in creating environments where children and youth of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions can thrive. The goal of the review is to assess how well the SOGI Policy is supporting a positive and inclusive atmosphere in Yukon schools.
"This is a topic that can stir up strong emotions and debate, but our focus remains on the best interests of all children," said King. “Ultimately, we want to ensure that every child feels safe, accepted, and supported in their educational journey.”
Participants can complete the anonymous survey until April 2025 at ycao.ca. In-person focus groups are also available in schools, during and after school hours, upon request, until the end of April 2025. Anybody can safely provide information to the Advocate. All responses will be kept confidential.
A final report, including findings and recommendations, will be presented to the Department of Education in the fall of 2025.
The Child & Youth Advocate Office is an independent office of the Legislative Assembly. The operations of the office are guided by the Child and Youth Advocate Act. Children, youth or others concerned about a child or youth receiving services within Yukon Government can contact the Child and Youth Advocate Office at (867) 456-5575.
Contact:
Annette King
Child and Youth Advocate
Yukon Child and Youth Advocate Office
(867) 456-5575