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Transphobia and Homophobia interferes with the healthy development of all young people, particularly those who are dealing with issues of sexual orientation and/or gender identity. One of the many places lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth feel the negative effects of misinformation and fear is within their schools.
These pages are designed to not only give youth, school staff and administrators many valuable resources, but also to provide practical suggestions for helping to reduce bullying and harassment within our schools.
The ultimate goal is to ensure the safety of all students.
If you're a student...
If the information on this website brings up issues and concerns and there is not a supportive teacher you know of in your school with whom you feel safe, call Kaleidoscope Youth Center we can help you find the help and support you need. Also, call Kaleidoscope if you are interested in establishing a GSA in your school. We can provide confidential assistance.
If you're a teacher...
Not only will you find these pages helpful in creating a safer environment., we included valuable exercises you may choose to use in your classroom. These are in the section titled "What can you do." If, after you read through the exercises, you have further questions about how to do them, please call Kaleidoscope Youth Center.
If you're a parent...
As you work with school staff to create an environment which provides safety for all students, you may find it particularly helpful to look at the information about Gay/Straight Alliances. You may also want to look at some of the information found in the “For Families” section.
If you're a school administrator...
As you work to create safer spaces within your school for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students to learn, you may find the information about GSA’s and inclusive policies particularly helpful. You may also want to give Kaleidoscope a call to schedule a discussion about cultural competence .
Why You Should Care
The issue of sexual orientation and gender expression is one of personal importance to a great number of young people. Researchers and social scientists suggest that 1 to 3 of every 10 students is either gay or lesbian, or has an immediate family member who is. Thus, between 3 and 9 kids in every class of 30 has had some direct experience with the issues of homosexuality and homophobia.
Schools have an obligation to support and enhance the self-esteem of all students regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. They are also a logical place to provide accurate information. We hope that these pages are helpful to you in beginning this journey. | |
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