How might we begin to address how the systems that we teach our curriculum in are intrinsically homophobic, transphobic, biphobic and oppressive towards queer and trans people?
- Do not stay silent about 2SLGBTQIA+: Encourage conversations on these topics in the classroom. The more we shove these topics to the side, the more missed opportunity for meaningful discussions. The more we have these conversations, the more students will be comfortable sharing their thoughts with the class. If we teachers do not disrupt the curriculum in talking about 2SLGBTQIA+, we are also teaching students to stay silent. Do not be afraid of controversial topics. As we have been learning for the past couple of weeks, discomforting learning is how we make meaningful learning. Eventually, the whole class, including us educators, will know from these conversations.
- Acknowledge your 2SLGBTQIA+ students: If they are comfortable, have them take the lead and educate the class about them and their knowledge about 2SLGBTQIA+.
- Educate yourself: We teachers must be mindful of what we teach our students. Let us give ourselves time to educate ourselves so that we are knowledgeable about the 2SLGBTQIA+ perspectives. We also must acknowledge our own biases and lack of knowledge and use that as a tool to educate ourselves on how we are contributing to the classroom that is homophobic, transphobic, biphobic, and oppressive towards queer and trans people.
- Provide resources for 2SLGBTQIA+ students: teachers can put up an inspirational board that reveals some knowledge to the students that could inspire them. Resources include a list of scholars and scientists who are part of 2SLGBTQIA+, diverse literature, diverse art, and more.
There are more ways to address how our curriculum and educational systems are intrinsically homophobic, transphobic, biphobic and oppressive towards queer and trans people. Educators need to fully commit and set their minds to making a change. Educating ourselves about the 2SLGBTQIA+ is one way, but there are more ways, such as acting upon what we learned. By creating a safe space for our 2SLGBTQIA+ students, we are also creating an inclusive and accepting environment where classrooms challenge the curriculum that is homophobic, transphobic, biphobic and oppressive towards queer and trans people.