VEAES gives thanks and recognizes that we work and meet on the stolen, unceded joint territory of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil Waututh), and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) Nations.​

Vancouver Elementary and Adult Educators and Vancouver Secondary Teachers unions stand firmly and proudly with the 2SLGBTQIA+ communities in the face of rising regressive education policy, violence, and anti-trans hate speech in Canada.  These attempts to dehumanize our trans colleagues and students are on the rise in our communities, and have a deep impact on the safety in our schools and worksites.

We support and provide SOGI education and curriculum in our schools and workplaces because we believe all students, staff, and families have the right to safe, inclusive schools.  Safe and inclusive schools require freedom from discrimination and harassment based on sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression.  We are committed to fight the disinformation and hate through teaching, learning, and speaking out when we see harm being done.

Campaigns based in anti-2SLGBTQIA+ or anti-SOGI rhetoric harm staff, students, families, and communities, and the violence and harassment in BC and across Canada require affirmation of our values.  We raise our voices alongside our siblings in the labour movement in solidarity, equity, and inclusion.  It’s up to all of us to take a stand – An injury to one is an injury to all.