Sexualization of children from the age of 6, Quebec Ministry of Education
The Quebec Ministry of Education has implemented a new mandatory curriculum focused on sexuality and gender identity in elementary and secondary schools. Children as young as six years old will now be introduced to the complexities of sexuality.
The Quebec Ministry of Education has announced the replacement of the "Ethics and Religious Culture" (ECR) program with a new program called "Quebec Culture and Citizenship," which will become mandatory starting in the 2024-2025 school year. This revamped curriculum aims to introduce students to various aspects of sexuality, gender identity and LGBT+ content, eliciting a wide range of reactions among the population.
From the primary level, children from the age of six will receive lessons on sexuality, the needs of the body, the prevention of sexual assault and the various family compositions. In the second grade, students will learn about sexual body parts and gender roles. In the third year, the focus will be on sex and gender stereotypes, inclusion and exclusion, and respect for differences.
The program continues to expand on these themes through high school, with only Secondary III students, aged 14, receiving a short break from sex education content. This approach can overwhelm young students by introducing complex topics at an early age.
The former "Ethics and Religious Culture" programme provided tools to understand cultural and religious heritage, promote social cohesion and teach tolerance, respect and openness. In contrast, the new curriculum aims to address inequalities and differences based on appearance, gender, and behavior.
Some concerns were raised about the program focusing on gender identity and sexuality, which can lead to early sexualization and confusion among young children. Topics such as gender dysphoria and non-binary identities are complex psychological issues that should be addressed by medical professionals rather than school curricula.
This new program is now mandatory in public schools in the province of Quebec, but will parents contest it?