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Expected Protest Congregating at Education Centre – Friday, March 8 

Dear HWDSB Communities,  

Tomorrow, we anticipate that some HWDSB secondary students may participate in the “Hamilton Out for Palestine” protest planned to gather in front of the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board Education Centre.    

Based on information available, we understand that some HWDSB secondary students plan to walk out of class at roughly 11 a.m. and arrive at the Education Centre by 11:30 a.m.   

 Our values and commitments    

In anticipation of the potential protest, we acknowledge that this event impacts HWDSB students and staff, especially those who are members of the affected communities.     

We deeply empathize with those who may be impacted as a result of these particular world events and understand the desire HWDSB students have to share their experiences and perspectives.   

HWDSB values student voice and we are listening and responding to their collective input with a commitment to Board-wide continuous improvement.    

HWDSB’s commitment to human rights remains unchanged. HWDSB Human Rights Policy serves as an anchor to related policies and furthers HWDSB’s commitment to foster and maintain a culture where:   

• Everyone is treated with dignity and respect.   
• Everyone is supported and accepted.    
• Everyone is free from discrimination and harassment.   
• HWDSB’s learning and workspaces are welcoming, respectful, accessible, and free from systemic discrimination, harassment, and different forms of oppression.  

 HWDSB’s commitment to providing learning and working environments that are safer, more inclusive, respectful, accessible, and free from discrimination and harassment for all remains unchanged.    

 Student Well-Being and Supports   

 Student safety and well-being is of the utmost importance at HWDSB.  We know that world events can cause a sense of anxiety and distress for some students. We care about our students’ well-being. Please see below to access a variety of supports that students and families may find helpful during these challenging circumstances.     

 As we navigate these difficult times, our focus continues to be upholding dignity, compassion, empathy, and kindness for all.   

Sincerely,   

Sheryl Robinson Petrazzini 
Director of Education 
 
Maria Felix-Miller 
Chair of the Board and Ward 3 Trustee   

Resources:   

• Kids Help Phone – Crisis Line 1-800-668-6868    

• 24/7 counselling and information service for young people.    

• HWDSB Helps – Text 905-963-0066 or via Web Chat     

• HWDSB Helps is a free and anonymous way for students to find help for themselves and one another. Tips may relate to student mental health, bullying, substance use and more. This is not a crisis line or counselling service.    

• HWDSB Mental Health and Well-Being    

• Find a full listing of mental health-related opportunities on our We Help Update webpage. In addition to groups and workshops, students and families can also explore links to a wide range of mental health and well-being resources.