Jun. 25, 2025
At Chris Akkerman School, the idea of standing up for what’s right isn’t just something taught — it’s a regular part of every school day.
Grade 3 When Grade 3 teacher Tọ̀míwá Adéjùwọ́n joined the school community, she brought a thoughtful commitment to representation and intentionally centred change-makers who reflected the identities and brilliance of her students. Her classroom became a vibrant reflection of the school’s broader commitment: where students saw themselves not only reflected, but celebrated, in the stories of those shaping the world.
“It was important for them to see that upstanders aren’t just famous people from the past,” she explained. “We wanted them to recognize the people in their lives — their parents, their teachers, members of their communities — those who are making a difference every day.”
Throughout the year, her class explored the Seven Sacred Teachings, celebrated Black History and Women’s History Months, and connected those lessons to everyday acts of justice and kindness. The result was a student-driven project inspired by the Canadian Museum for Human Rights’ “Be an Upstander” initiative.
Grade 5For Grade 5 teacher Maham Manzar, the spark began a year earlier at a teacher convention session about the CMHR program.
“It aligned so closely with what I value as an educator. Building moral character and teaching students how to respond to real-world issues like racism, bullying, and injustice,” Manzar shared.
After integrating the project into her curriculum, she saw something powerful unfold.
“It made our classroom community stronger. It supported self-regulation and helped students build confidence. They began to see themselves as people who could make a difference.”
Voices from the Classroom
I like the Upstander program because it can change the world and make it a better place. It can help teach people to stop bullying and stop polluting.
Jiya, Grade 3
Before we learned about this, many of us were bystanders. But now we know how to help each other — if we see injustice, we stand up for what is right.”
Delina, Grade 5
I used to think one upstander couldn’t change anything. But now I know it only takes one person to start standing up.
Dev, Grade 5
When I get older, I might forget. But if I do this project, I will keep remembering that I am an upstander.
Shayna, Grade 3
Students also explored the lives of historical figures who embodied courage and conviction: Rosa Parks, Nelson Mandela, Maya Angelou, Malala Yousafzai, Harriet Tubman, Viola Desmond — all individuals who, in students’ words, “never gave up” and “stood up even when it was hard.”
“This was about more than just a school assignment,” said Maham. “It was about helping students see that they are already leaders. And that leadership starts by standing up for yourself, for others, and for what is right.”
Grade 5 PoemsWhat’s Next?
Every student asked said the same thing: they want to do it again.
The students shared that being an upstander is not just a moment but a mindset and once you’ve stood up for what’s right, it’s hard to sit back down.
Grade 3
