[24]
Mr. Neufeld’s remarks at the rally were not limited to SOGI 123. He also
of famous transgender individuals has spurred a “new fad” of “gender confusion”
(p. 11). He stated that “rushing into the use of puberty blockers, hormone therapy and
gender reassignment [is] child abuse” and referred to gender reassignment surgery as
“lopping off perfectly good body parts” (pp. 10-11).
[25]
In January 2018, the Chilliwack Teachers’ Association (CTA) passed a
motion of non-confidence in the Chilliwack Board of Education for its failure to
intervene in the wake of Mr. Neufeld’s statements about SOGI 123. In a letter to the
media, the CTA cited growing concerns for “the emotional and physical safety of
students, staff and teachers” (A.R., vol. IV, at p. 157). Mr. Hansman was quoted in the
letter as stating that: “[s]ometimes our beliefs, values, and responsibilities as
professional educators are challenged by those who promote hatred” (ANCC, at
para. 20) (Statement 4). That letter was published in two local newspapers.
[26]
Subsequently, the Chilliwack School Board and the Minister of Education
asked Mr. Neufeld to resign from office. He refused and issued a press release declaring
that he supports all students, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, race,
religion, or background. He concluded:
I have simply taken issue with one facet of the SOGI 1-2-3 learning
resources; the teaching of the controversial gender-fluid theory as fact.
Despite the pressure to resign, I believe that I must remain on the Board to
be a lonely voice protecting impressionable children who I believe will be
2023 SCC 14 (CanLII)
commented that “gender is . . . rooted in biology”, and lamented that media coverage
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