Following a request by the British Columbia Humanist Association in March, Abbotsford School District Superintendent Kevin Godden has confirmed that “the district will no longer distribute the Gideon Bible or other religious materials to students.”
The District has maintained a policy of distributing materials from external groups, including Gideon Bibles, at the discretion of the superintendent.
Ian Bushfield, Executive Director, BC Humanist Association:
As far as we are aware, Abbotsford was the last public school district in BC that was distributing Gideon Bibles in classrooms. So this is a clear recognition that BC public schools should be secular and inclusive. It’s a sign to parents and students that they are welcome in Abbotsford whether they’re Christian, Muslim, Sikh, atheist or otherwise.
Despite this victory, the Government of BC continues to fund faith-based independent schools – a policy opposed by 70% of the public. The schools we fund as a province should be open and inclusive to students of all faiths and none.
Coverage
No more Bibles for Abbotsford public school kids - CBC News
Abbotsford schools to stop handing out bibles - The Vancouver Sun
Gideon Bibles will no longer be distributed in Abbotsford - Abbotsford News
Bye-bye Bible: Abbotsford School District won't be handing out religious materials - News 1130
Abbotsford public schools won't give kids Bibles anymore, district vows - Metro News
Abbotsford public schools to stop distributing bibles to students - CKNW
Janice & Cory interview with Ian Bushfield - Roundhouse Radio 98.3