Children’s Aid Society adopts “anti-oppressive practice”

“We are committed to anti-oppressive practice in which we challenge the impacts of power and privilege, eliminate barriers, and are inclusive of the broad range of diversity in our community… This is a place where human rights are respected, and where lesbian, gay, bisexual, transexual and queer people, and their families, friends and allies are welcomed and supported.” – Durham Children’s Aid Society website.

According to a story in Oshawa This Week, “(Durham CAS Executive Director) Ms. Secord is quoted as saying that the CAS has taken a number of steps, starting with hiring an internal anti-oppressive expert, and has developed a comprehensive infrastructure within staff based on committee and program development.” (My emphasis). We are also told on the Durham CAS home-page that, as of March 31st this year, “The Durham Children’s Aid Society is currently seeking candidates for its Board of Directors who reflect the diversity of the community the Society works with…” (my emphasis). Dr. Wanda Thomas Bernard, a Professor at Dalhousie University and “an internationally recognized AOP expert and advocate”, spoke at the launch, and I am providing a link to her Dalhousie University profile website page as it clearly indicates the direction this initiative towards “anti-oppressive practice” is likely to take… More...