In the article “As a Sort of Blanket Term”: Qualitative Analysis of Queer Sexual Identity Marking, the authors focus on the diversity that can be found throughout sexuality. An important quote that I found in this reading was “Sexual minority individuals are often categorized together as having common experiences surrounding their identities”. The reason why I chose this quote is that it outlines the importance of understanding the difference and similarities when addressing one’s sexuality. Sexual identity marking may also occur aesthetically through gender non-conforming appearance or by wearing or displaying community symbols such as pride fags and other sexual appearances. A great quote to describe queer sexuality is that “Queer is often used as an umbrella term to describe non-cisgender and non-heterosexual individuals or that outside of traditional gender roles or sexual binaries”. As an educator knowing the sexual identity of students is a great way of connecting and creating inviting classroom space.
The reading Queering Curriculum Studies is a great resource on how to integrate queerness into a teacher’s classroom and the curriculum. Having queerness in the classroom is an important aspect of students living inside that classroom as creating an inviting space will help the students learn and participate in class. one of the greatest ways to show queer support is the addition of a pride flag at the front of the class. this shows students that I am an ally and want to show support for what they believe in. pronouncing my pronouns is another way I plan on showing my support for the queer community.
The final paper is Post-gay, Political, and Pieced Together- Queer Expectations of Straight Allies which deals with allyship and how this is not fixed and can vary in a population. As an educator, being a supporter of queerness is a positive thing and not letting discrimination happen in class is a job that teachers must do. Being a straight ally means that there are “critical views of the role of allies, these studies imply that allies should be confronting queerphobia and de-centring heterosexuality in everyday life, but queer people, as a heterogeneous group, may or may not share the researchers’ perspectives about what allies should do.”. straight people must take on more responsibility and as an educator, I must take it upon myself to protect the queer community.