The Saskatchewan Advocate for Children and Youth says her office was not advised of the policy change announced Tuesday by the Ministry of Education on use of preferred names and pronouns by students.

Dr. Lisa Broda says under legislative authority her office is to review and advise on such matters. She says she will examine the policy taking into consideration the Supreme Court of Canada’s mature minor doctrine. She says, “If a mature minor can make significant decisions related to their medical care under the age of 16, it would stand to reason that they could make a determination as to whether they wish to be referred to by a different pronoun, without undue interference.”

The Saskatchewan government announced schools must have consent of a parent or guardian when changing the preferred pronoun used by students under age 16 in schools. Saskatchewan also says parents and guardians must be informed of a school’s sexual education curriculum and given the option to decline their child’s participation.

Dr. Broda describes her reaction as “deeply troubled” and that the Ministry’s policy prior to this latest change, supported non-discrimination, inclusion, and accommodation of students of sexual and gender minorities.  She says the guiding document on Gender and Sexual Diversity which is what had been in use in school divisions encouraged educators to honour a student’s preferred pronoun and name, and when appropriate, to respect their confidentiality, which aligned with children’s rights and fostered school environments that were safe to students.