Safe Spaces

Quotes

"When someone with the authority of a teacher, say, describes the world and you are not in it, there is a moment of psychic disequilibrium, as if you looked into a mirror and saw nothing. Our classrooms need to be "mirrors and windows" for all students- mirrors in which youth see themselves in the curriculum and recognize their place in the group; windows through which youth see beyond themselves to experiences connected with, but not identical to, their own." 

  This quote truly describes why LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum is so important, and why it needs to be implemented with in classrooms. I know just from my own educational experience that there is no  LGBTQ history being taught in history, literature, or sexual education. Such inclusion in these subjects would mean genuine acceptance, less bullying, better academic rates, lower suicide and depression rates, and safer environments for students in the LGBTQ community. 

"One reason educators take the path of least resistance is their fear of negative repercussions from parents or administrators." 

  This topic is a huge reason why LGBTQ education has been swept under the rug for so many years. Even the most liberal and pro-tolerant teachers may not feel comfortable including such topics in their lesson plans due to potential consequences they might face from parents. It truly boggles my mind that parents think its justifiable to claim "parental rights," to restrict their child from learning about other peoples values and perspectives on the world. As if LGBTQ education will suddenly change who a child is or how they chose to love in the future. It is such backwards thinking, because the truth is that exposing students to multiple perspectives, as well as not restricting their knowledge best equips them for life.

"Good intentions are not enough; trying to see all students as the same is not enough. Being a fair- minded individual is not enough. We argue that educators most publicly commit to creating classroom climates of inclusivity and respect with the pledged cooperation of all students."

  I loved this quote because I feel that this is often where the problem lies. People consider themselves to be accepting individuals, capable of acknowledging that people have different life styles then their own. This is not where people should remain content, rather we need to strive towards having understanding. When we understand, we then too have empathy, respect, and awareness towards others. These attitudes are what create safe and equal environments for students.

https://www.cultofpedagogy.com/lgbtq-students/

Ive included an article which details how a teacher can create an inclusive environment, while making school a safe place for LGBTQ students.