Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at LCS | Learning About Identity

At LCS, one of our core values is individuality. “By celebrating the unique gifts and qualities brought by the individual to the community, we encourage the development of personal values in the context of responsibility to the community and to oneself.” This value is applicable in many contexts, one of which includes striving, as a community, to strengthen our understanding of how we can create a safe environment for each of us to celebrate and express our individual identity. 

This week, LCS faculty and staff participated in a Professional Development session to strengthen their understanding and discuss the topic of gender identity and sexuality. Over the past few months, members of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) working group and the student DEI group have met with Toronto-based educator and social worker Rafael Daunt – to design a series of educational workshops in which perceptions of gender and identity are explored. In addition to hosting a workshop with all staff, Rafael met with our Heads of House, and they will speak to our entire community next Monday, March 8 in Chapel. 

At LCS, there is a deep commitment to creating a sense of safety and belonging for all. In an effort to strengthen understanding while continuing to nurture that sense of belonging, there are many initiatives surrounding diversity and inclusion that we are prioritizing in our community. One important priority that our students have identified is addressing homophobia and transphobia. The workshops designed by our DEI groups in partnership with Rafael led us in the right direction of fostering an inclusive culture and respectful environment where students can lead healthy, happy, confident lives.