March 17 Queering the Curriculum

We can address the systematic discrimination of LGBTQ+ youth by recognizing that it occurs in all schools and communities. It’s not a subject we can avoid because it’s unpleasant or inconsequential. Because LGBTQ+ kids are everywhere and encounter bigotry and persecution at an increasing rate, these issues should be addressed in the classroom. Suppose these children’s difficulties from ten years ago continue to plague them. In that case, our schools must change after identifying the problems; policies and procedures must be developed to assist and safeguard LGBTQ+ students in the educational system so that they do not feel excluded or that their professors do not understand them.

As we discussed in class, the engagement of LGBTQ+ children and their parents in issues that impact them is critical for the community to feel included and equal. As prospective teachers, we must also ensure that LGBTQ+ students feel safe and comfortable in the classroom, realizing that their needs extend beyond sexuality and gender. As they get older, they face the same problems as other students.