Ford diminishes students that organized the largest student protest in Canadian history

Protest sparked by PC MPP Randy Pettapiece’s refusal to talk to student with concerns

QUEEN’S PARK — During question period Monday, Doug Ford and his education minister doubled down on calling the student organizers of the largest student protest in Canadian history merely “pawns,” — refusing again to address their concerns about cuts to their education.

NDP Education critic, Marit Stiles, demanded an apology from Doug Ford for dismissing and belittling students, like Listowel student Natalie Moore, who started the province wide student walkout after local Conservative MPP Randy Pettapiece (Perth-Wellington) backed Doug Ford’s cuts, and refused to respond to her concerns.

Incredibly, Pettapiece’s choice to ignore high school student Natalie Moore contributed to Moore’s creation of the largest student protest in Canadian history.

“I was so impressed when I heard Listowel high school student Natalie Moore on CBC,” said NDP Education critic Marit Stiles. “She spoke articulately about why she opposes the Ford cuts to education, and she knew her facts. But I was really disappointed to hear that Conservative MPP, Randy Pettapiece has refused to respond when she tried to get in touch with him.

“It’s inspiring, and a little ironic, that by ignoring her, Pettapiece really contributed to Natalie’s drive to organize a student protest that saw more than 150,000 students across the province walk out of their classrooms, the largest student protest in Canadian history.”

The Doug Ford government has announced deep cuts to education that include getting rid of thousands of teachers, resulting in larger class sizes and fewer course options for students, putting things like arts, technology and trades classes especially at risk.

“Ontario’s students showed that they have a voice, and deserve to be heard,” said Stiles. “New Democrats congratulate Natalie Moore for being a leader, and fighting for her education, and the education of all Ontario’s students.”