Solomon, S. (2017) (4, Triangle program development, purposes of Triangle Program, Curriculum, broader legal and social contexts)

I. Introduction

• Program Inception: Opened in September 1995 under the Oasis Alternative Secondary School in the Toronto Board of Education (TBE).

• Significance: Canada’s only high school program dedicated to LGBTQ students.

• Purpose: Provides a safe space for LGBTQ students, addressing homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia.

II. Historical Context and Development

• 1980s:

  • 1985: Murder of Ken Zeller, a gay librarian, by Toronto high school students highlighted the urgency to address homophobia.

  • 1986: School trustee Olivia Chow’s investigation revealed unchecked abuse towards suspected gay students.

  • 1988: Human Sexuality Program established, focusing on counseling LGBTQ youth, staff development, and workshops on homophobia.

• 1992–1993:

  • Steve Solomon developed a proposal for an alternative school for LGBTQ students during his social work practicum.

• 1995: Triangle Program formally proposed and established under the leadership of the Zeller Program Planning Committee.

III. Curriculum and Learning Environment

• Queer-Centric Curriculum:

  • Subjects like history and English are explored through a queer lens.

  • Individualized study plans for each student, promoting a transition back to mainstream schools if desired.

  • Special courses and units: Coming out stories, homophobia studies, Holocaust curriculum, wellness, and creative arts like quilting.

• Proms and Celebrations:

  • Over the Rainbow and Pride Prom events for LGBTQ students became cherished traditions.

IV. Evolution and Impact (1995–2017)

• Community Support:

  • Tremendous volunteer contributions, including tutors and a nutrition program.

  • Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto provided free space for the program.

• Student Outcomes:

  • Triangle created a supportive environment where many students experienced their first academic successes.

  • By 2005, nearly 275 students had been part of the program; by 2017, nearly 600 students had registered.

• Challenges Faced:

  • Trauma from prior homophobia significantly impacted students' learning.

  • Social workers addressed issues like housing instability, family conflict, and social assistance.

V. Policy and Legal Milestones

• 1999 TDSB Equity Policy: Acknowledged inequities and committed to inclusive curriculum reflecting sexual orientation and gender identity.

• 2005 Same-Sex Marriage Legalization: Federal legislation made marriage inclusive across Canada.

• 2009 Bill 165: Required schools to address homophobia and gender-based violence.

• Gender-Neutral Bathrooms: TDSB policy commitment to providing accessible facilities.

VI. Legacy and Current Relevance

• Continued Mission: Despite societal progress, the need for a safer learning environment remains essential for LGBTQ students.

• Community Growth: Active Gay-Straight Alliances in schools reflect the program's influence.

• 20th Anniversary (2016): Celebrated the program’s impact with current and former students and community partners.

• Graduate Success: Students have pursued post-secondary education and other personal goals confidently.VII. Broader Implications

• The Triangle Program serves as a model for integrating LGBTQ issues into education and fostering equity and inclusivity.

• Highlights the need for continued advocacy and support for marginalized students in mainstream educational systems