In a letter to the Greater Victoria School District (SD61), a local parent chewed out the “vocal woke minority” on the school board and the Greater Victoria Teachers’ Association (GVTA) for pushing through divisive policies in schools such as defunding police liaisons.
Local Mary Kelly referenced an open letter published by the GVTA calling for the police liaison program to be officially cancelled. Her submission was presented before SD61’s Regular Board Meeting on Monday.
“It is very troubling to consider what possible agenda the GVTA is promoting through their letter. It is certainly not a child-centered agenda that puts each child’s best interest as the primary determinant of each decision,” wrote Kelly.
“I would also be very interested in seeing “the evidence” to support the GVTA position. I suspect it’s quality and relevance to our community is lacking.”
In her letter, Kelly goes on to blast “unsubstantiated claims of systemic racism” cited by the GVTA.
“And to insult Officer [Del] Manak and his Officers with unsubstantiated claims of systemic racism is hurtful, hateful and such a betrayal to all those selfless and brave Officers who put themselves in harms way each day for our safety and well-being,” wrote Kelly.
The resident goes on to commend Sooke School District chair Ravi Parmar who spoke out in support of police liaisons in schools.
“Please remain firm and courageous against any of this despicable rhetoric from the GVTA and “the vocal woke minority”, who are pushing this divisive and harmful agenda,” wrote Kelly about Parmar.
“Please know that you are on the right side of history and that the majority of parents and community members agree with you.”
In a comment given to the Times Colonist, Parmar stated that he welcomed the participation of police officer in his district’s police liaison program.
According to Victoria Police Chief Del Manak, police liaisons have been painted unfairly and they serve an important role keeping kids away from sexual exploitation or gangs.
“(Our role) is to build positive relationships and trust with students, which organically establishes mentorship and role models,” said Manak.
