The Manitoba government is taking an important step in building safer and more inclusive schools with the launch of the kindergarten to Grade 12 Anti-Islamophobia Action Plan, Education and Early Childhood Learning Minister Tracy Schmidt announced on Demcember 11.
"Every child deserves to feel safe, supported and included in Manitoba's schools, regardless of their faith, background or identity," said Schmidt. "The action plan equips educators with the knowledge and resources to make schools safer and more inclusive for all kids."
The plan outlines the Manitoba government's commitment to prevent and address Islamophobia in the kindergarten to 12 education system to promote equity, and foster belonging for all students. It was developed by the Anti-Islamophobia Working Group, established in October 2024 and made up of community leaders, educators and Department of Education staff. The plan focuses on four key areas:
- Recognize and celebrate: Including Muslim history in schools and curriculums.
- Equip and empower: Providing professional learning and resources for educators to address Islamophobia.
- Well-being and belonging: Supporting mental health and fostering safe, inclusive environments for Muslim students and staff.
- Partnerships: Building strong relationships between schools and Muslim communities.
"It is encouraging to see leaders working closely with communities to develop thoughtful, practical solutions that support our students," said Sadaf Ahmed, government affairs and public policy officer, National Council of Canadian Muslims. "The action plan helps schools address Islamophobia directly by fostering mutual understanding among all students, staff and the broader school community. It promotes cultural awareness and collaborative engagement across classrooms. The Manitoba government's work in providing a concrete plan of action for kindergarten to Grade 12 education marks a significant step forward for students and families."
The action plan aligns with the Manitoba government's broader commitment to anti-racism and equity in education, and will be implemented in collaboration with school divisions and community partners, the minister noted.
To read Manitoba's kindergarten to Grade 12 Anti-Islamophobia Action Plan , visit: https://edu.gov.mb.ca/k12/docs/support/anti-islamophobia-action-plan/index.html.
