Minister's, K-12 education partners' statement on Pride 2026

June 1, 2026

Lisa Beare, Minister of Education and Child Care; B.C. School Trustees Association; BC School Superintendents Association; BC Association of School Business Officials; BC Principals’ & Vice-Principals’ Association; BC Teachers’ Federation; CUPE BC; BC Confederation of Parent Advisory Councils; BC Teachers’ Council; BC Public School Employers’ Association; First Nations Education Steering Committee; First Nations Schools Association; Métis Nation BC and Alliance of BC Modern Treaty Nations have released the following statement in celebration of Pride 2026 and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in B.C.’s education system:

“During Pride Month, we reflect on and celebrate the achievements and resilience of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. It is a time to recognize the strength and leadership of 2SLGBTQIA+ students, families, educators and community members who enrich our schools and communities throughout B.C. This month is also an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to safe and inclusive schools. Every person in our province has the right to show up authentically and be respected for who they are.

“Pride is also a reminder that progress must be protected. 2SLGBTQIA+ community members still encounter hate and discrimination, which has no place in our province, our communities or our classrooms. Schools play a vital role in shaping how children navigate the world, and from an early age, students should know that schools are spaces where differences are celebrated and where everyone feels like they belong.

“Let’s use this Pride Month to honour those who have built the foundation for change one brick at a time. By standing together, we can foster schools and communities where kindness and inclusivity guide our actions for generations to come. Happy Pride!”

Learn More:

If someone is experiencing discrimination or harassment related to sexual orientation or gender identity, get help here: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/erase