REGINA, Saskatchewan (KTUU) – A coalition of three organizations has announced a joint application to intervene in the Court of Appeal case challenging Saskatchewan’s pronoun consent law. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), the Saskatchewan Federation of Labour (SFL), and the Canadian Teachers’ Federation (CTF) have expressed significant concerns about Bill 137, both regarding its rapid passage and its potential harm to youth.
On October 17, 2023, youth from various high schools in Regina staged a rally outside the Saskatchewan Legislative Building, protesting the government’s policy on pronouns. This demonstration underscored the broader opposition and worries within the community about the implications of the law.
The trio of organizations issued a news release on Monday morning, criticizing the expedited process through which Bill 137 was enacted. They argue that the legislation, which mandates parental consent for students to use pronouns different from their sex assigned at birth, could inflict psychological harm on youth, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community.
representative emphasized the lack of adequate consultation with educators and mental health professionals before the bill’s passage. “The hasty approval of Bill 137 overlooks the critical input from those who understand the nuances of youth development and mental health,” the representative stated.
The Saskatchewan Federation of Labour (SFL) highlighted the potential for the law to create an environment of fear and exclusion for students who might already be vulnerable. “By forcing students to seek parental consent, this law risks outing them to unsupportive families, which can lead to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues,” an SFL spokesperson explained.
The Canadian Teachers’ Federation (CTF) also voiced concerns, pointing out that the law could undermine the trust between students and educators. “Teachers play a pivotal role in providing a safe and supportive environment for all students. This legislation could hinder that relationship, making it harder for students to confide in trusted adults about their identity,” said a CTF representative.
The rally on October 17 saw significant participation from high school students across Regina, who gathered to voice their opposition to the pronoun policy. They carried signs and chanted slogans advocating for the rights of transgender and non-binary students. The demonstration was a clear indication of the community’s apprehension regarding the impact of the law.
One student, who preferred to remain anonymous, shared their perspective: “This law makes it harder for us to be ourselves at school. We should be able to express our identity without fear of being forced to come out to our parents.”
As the Court of Appeal case progresses, the intervention by CUPE, SFL, and CTF aims to bring these concerns to the forefront. They seek to ensure that the voices of those directly affected by the legislation are heard and considered in the legal proceedings.
The organizations hope that their involvement will lead to a more thorough examination of the law’s implications and potentially prompt revisions that prioritize the well-being and rights of students.