The Canadian Muslim Public Affairs Council (CMPAC) is pleased to announce its participation in the development of the “Framework for Engaging with Advocacy Groups,” recently published by the Council of Ontario Directors of Education (CODE). This critical resource is designed to guide school boards in building meaningful, equity-driven partnerships with advocacy groups to better serve diverse student populations across Ontario.

About the Framework

The framework was developed through extensive consultations with advocacy groups, including CMPAC, and stakeholders representing diverse communities and equity-seeking groups. It provides actionable guidance for school boards to engage effectively with advocacy organizations, ensuring that the voices of marginalized students and their families are heard and their concerns addressed.

Key areas covered include:

  • Guiding Principles for Engagement: Emphasizing equity, cultural responsiveness, and trauma-informed approaches.
  • Legal and Ethical Considerations: Outlining school boards’ responsibilities under human rights laws, accessibility standards, and educational policies.
  • Practical Engagement Strategies: Providing tools for fostering collaboration, resolving conflict, and creating accessible, inclusive environments.

CMPAC’s contributions centered on advocating for cultural competency, addressing Islamophobia, and ensuring the framework reflects the unique challenges faced by Muslim students and families.

CMPAC’s Broader Advocacy

This framework complements CMPAC’s broader efforts to address systemic inequities in education and beyond. As we continue our work advocating for Palestinian human rights, countering Islamophobia, and promoting equitable policies across sectors, we recognize the importance of tools like this framework in fostering systemic change. Advocacy in education is particularly critical, as schools shape the next generation’s understanding of equity, inclusion, and justice.

Why This Matters

Advocacy groups play a vital role in identifying and addressing inequities within the education system. CMPAC’s engagement in developing this framework reflects our commitment to ensuring that students from all backgrounds, including Muslim and racialized communities, have equitable access to education free from discrimination.

Looking Ahead

The Framework for Engaging with Advocacy Groups is a living document, open to feedback and periodic updates. CMPAC looks forward to continuing to collaborate with CODE and other stakeholders to refine and implement this important resource. We encourage educators, policymakers, and community leaders to explore the framework.

Read the Full Framework here.