PCs Recognize Importance of Deaf Community, Catholic Schools with New Bills
WINNIPEG — Progressive Conservatives have introduced legislation to recognize the significant contributions of Catholic schools and the Deaf community in Manitoba.
Introduced by Midland MLA Lauren Stone, Bill 226 would amend the Commemoration of Days, Weeks and Months Act to proclaim Catholic Schools Week, providing an opportunity for all Manitobans to learn about and celebrate the rich history of Catholic education in Manitoba and the quality education provided by Catholic schools.
The legislation would proclaim Catholic Schools Week, observed each year during the second week of February, to recognize the contributions of students, teachers, staff, and administrators, as well as fostering greater appreciation for the quality education and community values that Catholic schools provide.
“Bill 226 is a meaningful way to celebrate the rich history of Catholic education in the province,” said Stone. “There are currently 19 Catholic schools in Manitoba serving over 5,500 students from kindergarten to grade 12. Catholic schools have been a part of Manitoba’s educational landscape for decades and provide an inclusive and high-quality learning environment supporting academic, social, emotional, and spiritual growth.”
Bill 225, introduced by Brandon West MLA Wayne Balcaen, would likewise proclaim two observances aimed at promoting greater acceptance of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Manitobans, as well as encouraging accessibility and inclusion across the province.
The legislation would proclaim the last full week of September each year as Deaf Awareness Week, celebrating the invaluable contributions of Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals to Manitoba communities, as well as increasing awareness of the barriers that they face. Bill 225 would also proclaim the Day of Sign Languages, observed each year on Sept. 23, marking the founding of the World Federation of the Deaf in 1951. The observance promotes public awareness of Deaf culture, American Sign Language (ASL), Langue des Signes Québécoise (LSQ), and Indigenous sign languages.
“Bill 225 recognizes and celebrates Deaf and Hard of Hearing Manitobans, promoting respect, inclusion, and dignity,” said Balcaen, who himself has experienced hearing loss. “By establishing Deaf Awareness Week and the Day of Sign Languages, we can raise public understanding of Deaf culture and identity while encouraging accessibility in education, work, and community life. It also positions Manitoba as a leader in advancing inclusion, helping reduce barriers, and fostering a more welcoming, equitable society.”
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