York school board receives human rights award from national Muslim group
National Council of Canadian Muslims awards York Region District School Board in panel discussion event on Aug. 27

yorkregion.com
Aug. 31, 2017
By Ali Raza

The York school board is starting the new school year with a diversity accolade.

The National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) has awarded the York Region District School Board the Human Rights Award.

YRDSB chair and vice-chair Loralea Carruthers and Corrie McBain, respectively, were with equity superintendent Cecil Roach to receive the award. Recipients were announced at a panel discussion event on Aug. 27 - Spotlight 150: Education, Engaging Muslim Families, Building Inclusive Schools.

The discussion events involved parents and educators and were hosted at the Old Mill Toronto.

“I am honoured to receive the Human Rights Award for our ongoing efforts to nurture inclusive schools for all. This award is a testament to all the hard work from YRDSB trustees, staff, families, students, and community members to promote inclusivity, diversity, and a safe space for students,” said board chair Carruthers.

Minister of Children and Youth Services Michael Coteau, also the Minister Responsible for Anti-Racism, was also an award recipient and delivered the keynote address.

The panel included YRDSB elementary principal Rima Ishtiaque and other administrators, educators, and community members from the Greater Toronto Area including Idil Abdulkadir, Gachi Issa, Dilawar Alvi, Haniya Sheikh, and Amira Elghawaby.