Dear Louis Riel School Division Community, 

In the Louis Riel School Division (LRSD), we firmly believe that schools should be places where every individual—regardless of race, gender identity or orientation, spiritual tradition, ability, or background—feels valued, respected, and safe to be their authentic selves. Our commitment to anti-racist and anti-oppressive practices is not a response to trends; it is deeply rooted in our shared vision of co-creating inclusive environments where all learners and staff can thrive.   

Recent developments in the United States have captured global attention, and understandably, they may prompt reflection or concern within our community. And while events in the United States may have us feeling uneasy if not outraged, it is essential to recognize that attacks on diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility are not confined by borders. Our local communities, including the Indigenous, racialized, 2SLGBTQIA+, newcomer, religious minorities, differently-abled, and other historically marginalized populations, have long been advocating for their rights and freedoms. These struggles are longstanding and pervasive, extending beyond the current media spotlight.  

Whether beyond and within our borders, actions that dismantle diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) initiatives or target historically marginalized groups remind us why we must remain steadfast in sustaining and strengthening these core values that support learning and well-becoming—universal values enshrined in human rights declarations, national constitutions, and the Public Schools Act in Manitoba. 

As education workers, leaders, and members of this community, we reaffirm that: 

• We will continue to promote policies and practices that further equity and celebrate diversity. 
• We will prioritize creating classrooms and workplaces that challenge prejudice and nurture a sense of belonging for everyone.  
• We will teach our students to engage critically with the world, to stand against injustice, and to advocate for fairness and human dignity.

In support of these affirmations, the LRSD has developed a comprehensive Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP). Its four priorities of belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity are centered on Indigenous worldviews and perspectives. The MYSP reflects our unwavering commitment to the values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility that are at the heart of an anti-racist and anti-oppressive framework—an essential framework to celebrating the diverse stories within our community and achieving a more fulfilling and flourishing life at school and work.  

In LRSD, we will not waver in our dedication to building a community of schools and workplaces where diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility are more than aspirations—they are realities. Thank you for being part of a community that actively works to uphold and bring these core values to life. 

Warm regards,

Christian Michalik, Superintendent and CEO

Louis Riel School Division

Chris Sigurdson, Chair of the Board

Louis Riel School Division

Dwight Lavallee, President

CUPE 4642

Jay McGurran, President

Louis Riel Teacher's Association

Leanne Gregorchuk, President

CUPE 3473