Mutchmor Public School has cancelled a planned drag storytime event, stating that the presentation had “raised questions about curricular alignment.” The event was scheduled for June 19 during Pride month. In a letter to families obtained by the Ottawa Citizen, principal Sandy Miller and vice-principal Marc Laliberté explained that the presentation was intended “to promote literacy and themes of equity, diversity, and visibility in a unique and memorable way.” However, the letter did not elaborate on the specific reasons for the cancellation.
The administrators emphasized that the school remains “deeply committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment where all students feel accepted and celebrated” and that themes of acceptance and belonging would continue to be reinforced throughout the school year. The decision has left some parents questioning the rationale. Parent Chris Kamel expressed disappointment and confusion, noting that the event had been held before, was approved by administrators, and aimed to promote literacy and inclusive values. “It was unclear in what way this ‘raised questions about curricular alignment,’” Kamel said.
Chris Longtin, vice-chair of Pflag Canada, a national LGBTQ+ advocacy group, highlighted that drag storytime events promote literacy and expose students to diverse identities. “Providing visibility into multiple identities is important, and literacy is important. Anything that can achieve those goals just makes us a better Canada,” Longtin said. He added that cancelling such events “sends a message about who is or is not welcome in a school.”
Mutchmor, located on Fifth Avenue in the Glebe, is part of the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board, which did not respond to a request for comment before publication.
