Pride and Less Prejudice Donates 149 Books to Canadian Teachers, Thanks to the Tegan and Sara Foundation

Pride and Less Prejudice was so fortunate to have received our first grant from the Tegan and Sara Foundation Community Grants in December 2020. A $2,000 grant enabled us to provide 74 Canadian educators LGBTQ-inclusive book bundles for their PreK- 3rd grade classrooms. In total 149 books were donated to teachers in the provinces of Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario.

Addition of a New Book to Our Book Donations

When reviewing the classroom demographics and messages from Canadian teachers we found that there were numerous requests for stories about the LGBTQ indigenous community. We added the book Families by Kerry McCluskey and Jesse Unaapik Mike to our current book offerings, and also created a teacher resource guide for this book to support teachers.

Canadian Teacher Use Donated Books in their Classrooms

A survey was also sent to these teachers which was designed to ask how the books have been received in their classrooms and what our overall impact there has been. We were thrilled to hear some of the following testimonials.

“[These books] diversified the LGBTQ2S+ narrative, and helped students understand some historical context behind pride celebrations.”

“I think it was very eye opening as it seems a lot of students didn't even know you could have two parents of the same gender.”

“I think [these books] allow all children to feel that they are represented within literature.”

“Having books with diverse characters helps students see themselves, as well as help others appreciate the diversity in our community.”

“[Books from Pride and Less Prejudice] helped our class discussions about being kind to everyone and accepting everyone and being proud of who we are.

“We have several gender non-conforming students at school, as well as a couple same-sex couple families. I know that to see themselves represented is very powerful.”

“I think by reading and discussing these books, we are giving space for discussions and sending the message that we include and accept everyone in our school.”

“We had quite the discussion afterwards. We are doing a unit on families and our community, and my class is quite diverse in family structures. Children's books really open up discussions with the little ones.”

“Literature helps the children and the teacher to approach new topics in a safe and inviting way.”

“It builds my confidence as a teacher to be exposed to and use language that is supportive and inclusive in more diverse ways.”

“I think they were gentle but clear ways to talk about gender expectations and misconceptions and to help children learn about transgender identity in a relatable way.”