Is your school struggling with discriminatory language? racial slurs? harmful language? homophobic taunts?

Words have immense power—they shape the environment and experiences of every student and staff member. The Words Matter Campaign is an opportunity for your school to lead transformative change by equipping your entire school community to effectively address discriminatory language.

This isn’t just about addressing harmful words; it’s about creating lasting, respectful, and inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive. By engaging educators with practical tools and empowering them to confidently respond to discriminatory language, you’ll foster a culture that values respect and unity.

You won’t be doing this alone. Schools across the country are facing the same challenges, and many are stepping up to take action. Our campaign provides your school with essential resources and workshop materials, as well as peer support from Harmony Movement and other committed schools.

Together, we can address the harm caused and rebuild a sense of belonging and safety within our classrooms.

Join the growing community of schools and boards taking a stand against hateful language in 2024-25. Commit your school to building skills, knowledge, and a culture of respect that lasts. With Words Matter, you’ll be at the forefront of a movement making meaningful, tangible change in the lives of your students.

How does the campaign work?

Sign the pledge as a school or board and commit to taking action to challenge harmful and discriminatory language.

Once you sign up you will receive access to:

Workshop slides, activities, and facilitator guides featuring videos that highlight the impact of harmful language in schools and the importance of speaking up—customized for educators, parents/caregivers, and lessons for primary, intermediate, and secondary students.
Scenarios with step-by-step guidance on how to address harmful language when it occurs.
Best practices for supporting individuals or communities who have been targeted or harmed.
Email and social media templates to promote your commitment.
A customized Words Matter school pledge featuring your school’s name.

Gain access to valuable resources and supports

Live and recorded webinars throughout the school year on addressing ableism, anti-Black racism, homophobia and transphobia, antisemitism, Islamophobia, and more.
Receive support from Harmony staff and connect with other schools participating in the program.
Access a resource database with information and best practices on addressing specific issues.
Additional optional supports available at the school board/district level.

Empower educators and staff to effectively intervene and respond appropriately to instances of harmful language.
Access resources to implement best practices for creating inclusive school environments.
Equip educators, school administrators, and board staff with knowledge, tools and skills to address harmful language.
Foster collaboration between educators, administrators, and board staff to collectively tackle the issue of harmful language in schools.
Utilize built-in supports to measure the program’s impact.
Improve mental health by reducing the negative impact of this language in your school.

Together, let's create school communities where

A culture of inclusivity is cultivated, and harmful language is not tolerated.
Individuals take responsibility and are accountable for the impact of their words and actions.
Every voice is valued, and each person is respected.
Open dialogue, empathy, and education foster a safe, nurturing environment where students and educators can thrive.

Demonstrate your commitment to policies

Leverage existing school and board policies to address discriminatory language
Ontario PPM 128: The Provincial Code of Conduct and School Board Codes of Conduct
Ontario PPM 145: Progressive discipline and promoting positive student behaviour

Attend the Campaign Launch + Forum

October 21, 2024 | 10:00 - 2:30 EST
Online

Thinking about joining the campaign or already decided?

Send 2-3 staff members from your school or board to attend this forum. Get support, connect with other schools and plan how to implement the campaign in your school community.