How turfing SOGI and banning books became part of B.C.’s election [Video]

The party challenging B.C.’s current government is promising changes to the way sexuality and diversity is taught in schools — an issue that’s created division in the streets and between party leaders — while educators maintain the rift is not present in classrooms.

For years, there’s been conflict over SOGI 123 teaching materials meant to make classrooms more inclusive and safer. They’ve become a problematic divider that educators say is based on misinformation, but one that a politician — with a chance to become B.C.’s next premier — is hoping helps bring him to power.

“SOGI in itself has become too divisive. It’s become very problematic. Many parents want to see it go,” said John Rustad the weekend the campaign kicked off.

“So we need to remove that and make sure parents have their rights and engage with their kids in schools.”

SOGI 123, or Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity, was established in schools in 2016by the then-ruling B.C. Liberals, as part …