Hundreds in Regina protest new provincial pronoun and sex education policy

It was an emotional Saturday at the Saskatchewan Legislature.

Hundreds gathered outside of the front steps to protest against the new pronoun and sex education policy implemented by the provincial government for the 2023-24 school year.

The new rules are as follows:

• Parents will have to be notified when sexual health education is happening and what will be included, and parents will have the ability to take their kids out of the class if they wish;
• No third parties will be allowed to be brought in for sexual health education presentations, excepting from the ministry or Saskatchewan Health Authority. School divisions also will have to pause working with third parties on sex education programming as well; and
• Parents will have to consent before a requested name and pronoun change from a student will be honoured in the school.

Since the announcement on Aug. 22, there has been loads of anger – especially from the 2SLGBTQ+ community as some might no longer feel safe in Saskatchewan schools.

Last week in Saskatoon, a similar protest was held outside of Don Morgan’s office where people in that city voiced their displeasure.

Damara Juneau is a former teacher and organized the protest. Juneau explained why she felt something like this was needed.

“I’m here because I felt so angry about this policy,” Juneau said. “It was me being a very productive student one day and just feeling so angry and feeling the need to do something about it and stand up for trans kids.”

Protesters stand and chant outside of Saskatchewan Legislature to protest provinces new pronoun and sex education policy.
Photo: Sarah Wood

Ariana Giroux also helped organize the protest and was surprised with how many people showed up to support the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

“I was shocked, concerned,scared and not only worried about my well-being, but especially the well-being of those in the youth group,” Giroux explained.

“When we started getting organized we thought there would be 100 to 200 people tops. To see this reaction gives me hope. It’s beautiful to see and it fills  me with so much joy.”

Protesters gather outside Saskatchewan Legislature to protest provinces new pronoun and sex education policy.
Photo: Sarah Wood

Giroux feels the crowd send a big message to the government that this policy is much needed.

Juneau wants the policy rescinded.

“I don’t think we need a policy like this in place. It’s taking us back and not moving us forward. It’s not helping anyone,” Juneau stated.

Story courtesy of Global News Regina