How Can Teachers Incorporate LGBTQ Perspectives Into Their Classrooms?

by Julie Diamond, OCT

In recognition of June as Pride Month, a time dedicated to celebrating and supporting the 2LGBTQIA+ community, this blog will focus on how educators can incorporate LGBTQ perspectives into their classrooms. By promoting an inclusive environment, both online and in class, we can ensure that all students feel represented and respected. Here are several strategies, supported by Canadian resources and examples, to help teachers effectively support LGBTQ students in their teaching practices:

Curriculum Integration

1. Inclusive Literature:

   - Books: Include Canadian-authored books such as "The Boy & the Bindi" by Vivek Shraya, which explores gender identity, or "This Day in June" by Gayle E. Pitman, which celebrates LGBTQ pride events.

   - Poetry and Essays: Use works by LGBTQ Canadian authors like Ivan Coyote and Rae Spoon, whose writings often reflect their experiences as transgender individuals in Canada.

2. History Lessons:

   - Significant Figures: Teach about important Canadian LGBTQ figures like Pierre Elliott Trudeau, who decriminalized homosexuality in 1969, and Kathleen Wynne, the first openly gay premier of Ontario.

   - Events: Cover key events such as the 1981 Toronto bathhouse raids, which were pivotal in the Canadian LGBTQ rights movement.

3. Current Events:

   - News Discussions: Engage students with current news about LGBTQ rights in Canada, such as the passing of Bill C-16, which added gender identity and gender expression to the Canadian Human Rights Act.

4. Cross-Disciplinary Approaches:

   - Social Studies: Analyze the impact of legal changes on LGBTQ communities in Canada.

Classroom Environment

5. Visible Support:

   - Symbols: Display rainbow flags and posters from organizations like Egale Canada, which promote LGBTQ inclusivity and awareness, or Rainbow Railroad, which help LGBTQI+ people escape state-sponsored violence. 

6. Inclusive Language:

   - Guidelines: Follow guidelines from Canadian resources like the Ontario Human Rights Commission on using gender-neutral and inclusive language.

7. Pronouns:

   - Practice: Incorporate practices recommended by Canadian organizations such as the Canadian Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity (CCGSD), which provides resources on pronoun use.

Teaching Practices

8. Diverse Examples:

   - Classroom Scenarios: Use examples from Canadian LGBTQ families and individuals in teaching various subjects. For instance, in health classes, discuss different family structures including same-sex parents.

9. Respectful Discussions:

   - Training: Utilize resources from the Safe and Caring Schools initiative in Alberta, which offers guidelines for facilitating respectful discussions on LGBTQ topics.

- LGBTQ Students: If you have LGBTQ students who are comfortable sharing their insights with you or other students, it can provide great insight and be a great opportunity for others to ask questions and/or learn from their peer(s). I had a trans student in my class who focused his capsule project on teaching the class about his daily experiences as a trans person in Victoria, BC.

He was super excited to present, the students and I learned a lot, and it also sparked everyone to feel comfortable sharing other personal experiences as the school year progressed.

10. Anti-Bullying Policies:

    - **Programs**: Implement programs like the Canadian Red Cross's "Beyond the Hurt," which includes modules on LGBTQ bullying prevention.

Professional Development

11. Training:

    - Workshops: Participate in workshops and training sessions offered by organizations such as Egale, which provides professional development for teachers on LGBTQ issues which you may find here. Or you can take webinars from the University of British Columbia (UBC), regardless of where you are located as they offer online or in-person, and you may view the topics here. Or with the University of Alberta here.

12. Resources:

    - Materials: Use materials from GLSEN and Canadian organizations like PFLAG Canada to stay informed and updated on best practices for LGBTQ inclusivity.

Supportive Activities

13. Guest Speakers:

    - Speakers: Invite speakers from Canadian LGBTQ organizations like The 519 in Toronto, which can provide personal stories and educational sessions.

14. Clubs and Groups:

    - Support Groups: Support or establish Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs) in schools, which are supported by resources from GLSEN.

Policies and Advocacy

15. Inclusive Policies:

    - Policy Development: Advocate for policies using guidelines from the government of Manitoba resource "Supporting Transgender and Gender Diverse Students in Schools: Key Recommendations for School Health Personnel.”

16. Parental Engagement:

    - Workshops: Conduct workshops for parents using resources from Family Services Ottawa, which offers programs on supporting LGBTQ children and youth.

Addressing Stereotypes and Bias

17. Challenge Stereotypes:

    - Media Literacy: Use the National Film Board of Canada’s documentaries on LGBTQ issues to discuss and challenge stereotypes.

18. Critical Thinking:

    - Discussions: Engage students in critical discussions about representations of LGBTQ people in Canadian media and literature.

By integrating these practices and utilizing Canadian-specific resources and examples, teachers can effectively incorporate LGBTQ perspectives into their classrooms, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all students.

As teachers and tutors, we are committed to creating an inclusive learning space for all students.