The transcript for this witness testimony is currently in production by our volunteers. It will be available soon here on this page and as a downloadable PDF.

Summary

In her testimony, Karlene Duncan shares her experiences and concerns regarding the implementation of the SOGI (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity) program in British Columbia schools. She explains that while working in the technology department, she noticed a significant increase in SOGI-related materials being cataloged for elementary, junior high, and high schools. Duncan expresses her disagreement with the appropriateness of these materials for young children, which ultimately led to her decision to leave her position.

Duncan testifies that in her experience as a teacher-librarian, she never encountered students actively seeking books on gender identity or sexual orientation. She contrasts this with children’s typical interests, such as Minecraft, dogs, and monster trucks. Duncan raises concerns about the ARC Foundation, which funds the SOGI program, stating that it is not accredited for educational materials in the province.

The witness describes various approaches taken by librarians to handle SOGI materials, including some who lock the books away to show compliance while not actively circulating them. She provides statistics on the increase of SOGI-related books in one elementary school, from 88 to 111 titles, suggesting a disproportionate focus on these topics.

Duncan expresses worry about the allocation of resources towards sexual orientation topics for pre-pubescent students. She describes some of the book content as inappropriate, including political messages and the portrayal of characters with gender confusion as heroes. The witness recommends stopping the SOGI program across Canada, particularly in British Columbia, and suggests an independent audit of resources with the removal of most SOGI materials.

Credentials

Karlene Duncan is a highly qualified educator and librarian with a wealth of experience in the British Columbia education system. She has been a BC College certified teacher for 26 years and has furthered her education by obtaining a master’s degree in library and information science. Duncan has spent a significant portion of her career in Fort St. John, demonstrating her commitment to the local community. Her diverse experience includes roles as a teacher, librarian, public library director, and work in the technology department of the school district, showcasing her versatility and dedication to education and information services.