Vanier Name Survey
In February of this year, news of credible sexual abuse allegations was released by the L'Arche organization against Jean Vanier (school council statement from February 22, 2020).
Since then, schools and other organizations in Canada and worldwide have undertaken processes to determine whether they would continue their association with the Vanier name. Recent months may have slowed this process for our specific school, as both administration and council focused on the immediate needs of undertaking 'emergency education' for our students, due to the Covid-19 pandemic. However, with the new school year underway and a new school council mandate to begin next month, it is time to move forward with the next steps in considering our school's name.
Firstly, we want to be clear that as a school and council, we support the women who came forward to report their abuse. We also stand with the thousands of residents, volunteers, and staff of L'Arche communities who continue to struggle with the consequences of the actions of Jean Vanier.
Vanier Catholic Secondary was named after the Vanier family, not specifically for one individual. Although our school connects to Jean Vanier through his surname, we want to clarify that our school's name does not define us. We are defined by our students, teachers, staff and the broader community that support our school environment. Our commitment to going beyond our studies and our collective focus on service to others, helping the poor, reaching out to the marginalized, building community, and demonstrating inclusiveness is what defines our school community.
What is the next step? |
The decision to keep or change the school name ultimately rests with the Department of Education and Yukon Government Cabinet. However, the decision process requires a recommendation from the school council. For the council to make this decision, the entire school community needs an opportunity to provide input.
You will see that the questions are broader than 'yes or no' to changing our school name, which is intentional. Administration and council have received calls for both keeping and changing the name. Many factors must be taken into account, and the input from the entire school community is necessary to make the best decision for our school's future. |
How can I provide input? |
The survey should only take a few minutes, and we want to thank everyone that can respond.
For further information, please contact: Cynthia Lyslo, Chair Vanier Catholic Secondary School Council (clyslo@me.com) or Ryan Sikkes, Principal, (ryan.sikkes@gov.yk.ca). Survey will close on Friday October 9th. |