Parents for Diversity is a parent-led non-profit organization based in Ottawa that advocates for inclusive, anti-racist, and equitable education across Ontario. Founded by families with lived experience of systemic discrimination, the organization works to eliminate barriers faced by racialized, disabled, and marginalized students in public schools.
Vision and mission
Vision: A school system where every child is welcomed, valued, and supported to thrive—regardless of race, ability, language, gender identity, or socioeconomic background.
Mission: To educate, support, and empower parents, caregivers, educators, and school communities to create equitable learning environments grounded in justice and belonging.
Core programs and activities
Advocacy and systems change
Parents for Diversity challenges discriminatory practices and policies in schools, including streaming, overrepresentation in suspensions, and inadequate support for students with disabilities. They engage with school boards and education stakeholders to push for equity-centred reform.
Education and outreach
The organization delivers workshops, keynotes, and training sessions on topics such as anti-Black racism in education, inclusive curriculum, disability justice, and culturally responsive teaching. These sessions are offered to parents, teachers, and school administrators across Ontario.
Parent empowerment
Parents for Diversity offers support and guidance to families navigating school-based discrimination or barriers to inclusion. This includes one-on-one consultations, letter templates, and strategies for effective school advocacy.
Community building
They foster collective action through events, webinars, and campaigns that bring together parents, students, educators, and allies working toward more equitable school systems.
Key values
- Anti-racism: Naming and challenging systemic racism in all aspects of education.
- Inclusion: Recognizing and removing barriers that marginalize students based on ability, identity, or background.
- Parent leadership: Honouring the expertise and lived experience of families and caregivers.
- Justice and belonging: Building school cultures where every child feels safe, respected, and affirmed.
Governance and structure
Parents for Diversity is led by a board of directors composed primarily of racialized parents and community advocates. The organisation is volunteer-driven, operating with a focus on grassroots engagement and community accountability.
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