Chilliwack Teachers’ Association calling for school trustee who used ableist slur to resign

CHILLIWACK (NEWS 1130) — The Chilliwack Teacher’s Association is calling for a controversial school trustee to step down.

Just a few weeks ago, Barry Neufeld made news for a Facebook post using an ableist slur to insult local reporters.

Neufeld’s post referred to journalists at the Chilliwack Progress by name, using a derogatory word that refers to people with developmental disabilities to degrade them.

But Neufeld’s behaviour isn’t new, according to the CTA. He has a history of sharing offensive Facebook posts over the last three years.

“Lively debate is one thing, but making ignorant and offensive statements as an elected official is very inappropriate,” CTA president Ed Klettke said in a statement.

RELATED:

• Barry Neufeld under fire for Facebook post using ableist slur

• Neufeld’s use of slur, fellow Chilliwack trustee’s support ‘inexcusable, unconscionable’: board chair

A motion was passed at a special meeting Tuesday calling for the trustee to step down.

The association adds, Neufeld’s “offensive, outdated, insensitive” comments have no place in the public school system and demonstrate a lack of understanding and respect for students and families.

“Hurtful slurs have no place in the inclusive classrooms of today or in a respectful and caring learning community. Our entire school community needs to support the safety and education of all Chilliwack students. Public schools in BC open their doors to all students,” the statement reads.

The call for Neufeld’s resignation is apparently also a “short term solution.”

“It has become clear that a long term solution is also necessary and this led to the decision of the CTA membership to lobby the Minister of Education to make changes to the School Act,” the statement reads.

“It is unfortunate that there is currently no mechanism to remove an individual trustee in an extraordinary situation,” Klettke adds.

The education minister is also calling for Neufeld to resign.