Posters by Greystone Heights School students that illustrated their commitment to anti-racism and shared positive messages of diversity have been recognized with a City of Saskatoon Living In Harmony award.

The body of work created by 29 students in Christine Loewen's Grade 7/8 class received the award for Outstanding Classroom Participation, while the poster by student Steven Qiu was recognized as Best Overall Poster.

Loewen said the students' work is a good fit with the goals of the Living in Harmony awards, presented to recognize contributions to the elimination of racial discrimination in the community.  

"In my classroom, anti-racism education is interwoven into all subject areas. We look at practices and actions to challenge and counter racism. We celebrate uniqueness and acceptance of others," she said. "We are hoping to build a community of youth that are committed to combating racism and supporting inclusion for all. This art competition gave students the opportunity to express this."

Qiu's award-winning poster shared the importance of people living together in harmony through an image of a pizza with the words: "We all live on one big pizza. So let's all be kind to one another!"

Other posters used colourful images of people linking together or building a bridge to represent understanding and shared messages calling for the end to racism and emphasizing the importance of equality and anti-racist action.

This project ties in with curricular outcomes for arts education and promotes awareness for International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on March 21.

The Living in Harmony Awards are part of an effort by the City of Saskatoon to foster an inclusive community where ethnocultural diversity is welcomed and valued, and where everyone can live with dignity and pursue their full potential without facing racism or discrimination. The awards are presented annually.

Loewen said the awards, which are open to school and community groups, provide a valuable opportunity for students to share their perspective and beliefs about diversity and community.

"I want to express my gratitude for the judges and the City of Saskatoon who sponsor this competition. It is fantastic to see students with special needs in my classroom feel such success alongside their peers. Art expression is something all students of all levels can participate in and being recognized for it is even more amazing!"