The recent revelation of payments of millions of dollars by Hockey Canada as part of the settlements relating to allegations of sexual assault and abuse is a reminder of the new course that will soon be given on citizenship education.
The code of silence in our public school network with regard to acts of intimidation and harassment cannot be maintained and, since the population is more aware of the issue, more concrete measures must be taken against sexual harassment. The denunciation of these gestures should be encouraged instead of maintaining omerta in the school environment.
Whistleblowing is a risky activity for the individual and the organization, each of which values its image and its identity. Because loyalty to an institution is seen by many as paramount, those who speak out against these actions face hostility and alienation. These people must be protected.
Here are some points that I think should be incorporated into this new training:
1. Publicize the school’s commitment to reporting wrongdoing; put in place clear procedures and establish an anti-retaliation policy.
2. Although our schools play an important role in this issue, so do parents and society in general. We must continually review, update and improve the system.
For example, the creation of a hotline managed by an independent third party will ensure anonymity. This can help erase this culture of silence from society that often begins in our public school system.
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