Multiculturalism works, but teachers still need to speak up

Name: Gurpreet Mahil

Occupation: Teacher – Langley Teachers’ Association

Union: BCTF

Gurpreet (Gurp) Mahil was born in Abbotsford BC, the son of first-generation immigrants from Punjab who put down roots in their Fraser Valley berry farm. Growing up in the 1980s as a turban-wearing student, he experienced racism at school. For his classmates, “It was easier to laugh than to ask a question.”

Gurp sees more visible minorities now, but still sees racism. A member of the BCTF’s Committee for Action on Social Justice, he says “I don’t want to see racism at the end of my career, so I hope I can help to change a few people’s minds.” This means “thinking beyond the food, festivals and clothing.

We need discussion and panels, and to encourage teachers to speak up.” He encourages his students to ask questions about his Sikh heritage. “Questions are good because that is what starts the conversation.”

He believes that being Indo-Canadian benefits his relationships with kids. They interact with a teacher who “portrays his culture” and shares an “openness to all cultures” while offering unique opportunities.

Most of the students in his special education class experienced their first Indian meal when they visited the local gurdwara and langar. Gurp’s parents made education a priority for their children.

So, after graduating from secondary school, he attended the University of the Fraser Valley. There, inspired by the woman who became his wife and who is also a teacher, he gravitated to education. He recalls that his passion for sports had earlier sparked interest in teaching Physical Education.

A soccer player, he loves “its team aspect that still means you can excel as an individual.” At university he found another passion: student politics. Deciding to join the Student Union, he “got really involved,” spent a couple of years as vice president and then became president. He liked organizing events and making decisions.

So, he was “well-prepared to see what the BCTF was all about” when he became a Langley teacher. In the Langley Teachers’ Association, Gurp Chaired the Program Against Racism for two years and is now a Local Representative. He brings a new teacher’s perspective. “At a Representative Assembly, you see faces that have been there for over 20 years. Other new teachers can say `Hey, why is Gurp involved?’ and recognize the need to step into those shoes, too.” He knows the daunting challenges new teachers face: many classes to prepare for, shifting schedules, shrinking funds. Gurp believes all teachers, especially the newer ones, should know their rights.

His advice is to be involved in the local union.“That’s where the decisions are made. You can sit on the sidelines of you can get involved to protect your rights.”