The Waterloo school board refutes claims that staff were told the word “family” is racist, calling media reports a misinterpretation of a diversity workshop.
Controversy Stirs Over ‘Family’ Slide in School Workshop
The Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) in Ontario is defending itself after media reports alleged that teachers were being trained to view the word “family” as racist. The claim stems from a November 2023 professional development session held at Waterloo-Oxford District Secondary School near Baden, Ont., where staff discussed language and its impact on students.
What Sparked the Public Backlash
Images from the session, particularly one titled “Dismantling Whiteness at W-O: Words Matter,” circulated widely on alternative media sites such as Rebel News and Juno News in early June. A screenshot from the presentation noted that the term “family” had been “identified as harmful by our racialized students,” prompting headlines accusing the board of labeling the word as racist or oppressive.
Response from the School Board
WRDSB Chair Maedith Radlein responded publicly on June 12 during an interview, stating that the controversial screenshot had been “interpreted incorrectly.” According to Radlein, the image was taken out of context and did not reflect the intent of the training. “That screenshot was, in fact, part of a larger discussion about how language can be experienced differently by different students,” she explained.
Why the Confusion Matters
The backlash has led to an influx of emails and complaints directed at board trustees and staff. Radlein emphasized that the WRDSB’s mission includes supporting families, not dismissing them. “We value families and work with them every day to help students thrive,” she said, rejecting any suggestion that the board opposes traditional family structures.
The Role of Media and Misinterpretation
The incident highlights how selective reporting can inflame public opinion. In a June 6 video, Rebel News editor Tamara Ugolini criticized the board, interpreting the presentation as a direct attack on the family unit. However, the board insists the session aimed to encourage educators to be more aware of how common terms might be perceived differently by diverse students.
What Comes Next
In light of the uproar, the WRDSB has issued two official statements clarifying its position and reaffirming its support for families. The board says it will review how diversity training materials are presented and contextualized to prevent similar misunderstandings. No disciplinary actions have been taken, and the board continues to engage with concerned community members.
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