ACIC

Letters from Chloé Duguay and Wendy Ihama emphasize the importance of education and action on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Chloé advocates for integrating SDG education into Canadian schools to empower youth as empathetic, globally-minded leaders capable of addressing complex global challenges. Wendy calls for urgent action on poverty, gender equality, and education, proposing initiatives like nationwide menstrual equity, sustainable development curricula, and strengthened social protection systems to create a more equitable and sustainable future. Both stress the need for bold, inclusive policies to achieve the SDGs.

Chloé Duguay

Wendy Ihama

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To those in positions of influence,

Education has the ability to equip young people with the necessary knowledge and skills to emerge forward as the leaders of tomorrow. Leaders proudly proclaim that youth are the leaders of the future and many of us are the leaders of today. With that, if we are to fully be able to take on this role placed upon us, it is important that our education supports us in these steps.

If youth are responsible for regulating the climate crisis, regulating exploitative labour markets under capitalism and taking the decision to promote peace among opposing states among many other compounding and complex global realities, they need to be taught about these topics in school. How are we supposed to be the change we wish to see in the world if we do not know what needs to be changed, and how we might go about doing it?

My vision for SDG 4: Quality Education is this: Canadian students in classrooms across the nation learn about the SDGs as a strong framework for global solidarity. We are a generation of movers and shakers, so let us become equipped to take on the proverbial Goliaths that await us. As Canada has a phenomenal public education system where education is already a guaranteed right, it is important that this privilege is used in a way where students can reflect on their experiences and those differing from theirs. Students should learn about different cultures and identities, so that when they become leaders in positions of influence, they can pursue their work empathetically and be globally minded.

If discussed in a safe and open environment, students can engage with big important issues in a way that makes things feel just a little less hopeless. Engaging with global issues is a tireless endeavour, however, if students are shown how to break down action and advocacy into sizable tasks, progress can continue to evolve while inspiring and igniting those around them.

A quality education on the sustainable development goals, on solidarity and global connection will help realize all of the 17 ambitious goals. Collaborating across provinces to develop a federal education framework built on the principles of the SDGs has the potential for a chasmic ripple effect of positive impact.

An impactful education is a worthwhile call to action,

Chloé Duguay

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Chères et chers décideur·ses politiques,

The call for meaningful action on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has never been more urgent. The world is facing complex challenges poverty, inequality, and social injustice that threaten our collective future. However, within this moment of crisis lies an unprecedented opportunity to shape a future that is more sustainable, equitable, and resilient.

The SDGs are not a luxury, they are an imperative. The desires of new outside the box initiatives can become a reality but we must build short term as well as long term impact. With that said, I will now propose actionable suggestions:

Addressing Poverty and Gender Equality (SDG 1 & SDG 5): One of the most critical steps in eradicating poverty and achieving gender equality is ensuring access to menstrual products. Menstruation should never be a barrier to education, work, or basic dignity. The Menstrual Equity Fund Pilot program should not remain just a pilot but be reevaluated
and expanded into a national program. Menstrual products must be recognized as a right, not a privilege, and should be made freely available and accessible, especially to low- income individuals. While some provinces have made strides in this area, it is crucial that this initiative is extended nationwide to ensure that no one is left behind.
Prioritize Education for Sustainable Development (SDG 4 & SDG 10): Quality education is a key enabler for achieving the SDGs, but it must evolve to include sustainable development as a core curriculum. Policymakers should invest in lifelong learning programs and ensure that climate change, biodiversity, and social justice are integral parts of educational frameworks, so future generations are equipped to solve the challenges they inherit.
Strengthen Social Protection Systems (SDG 1 & SDG 3): The pandemic has laid bare the importance of social protection in ensuring equitable development. Governments should expand healthcare access, universal basic income, and social safety nets to protect the most vulnerable populations from the impacts of economic and environmental crises. Social protection is an investment in human capital that will pay dividends for years to come.

In closing, the SDGs are not just lofty ideals; they are achievable goals that require bold, compassionate, and coordinated action. I call upon you to act with urgency, guided by equity, to pave the way for a more just and sustainable world for all.

Sincèrement

Wendy Ihama

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