The Pink Lesson Plan: Addressing the Emotional Needs of Gay and Lesbian Students in Canadian Teacher Education Programs

Abstract

The history of civil rights in Canada illustrates a growing trend by the government to support the physical, emotional, mental, legal, and financial needs of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered citizens. However, the education system presents a slightly different climate. Despite numerous policies and initiatives, gay and lesbian students continue to report incidents of homophobia and an overall lack of emotional support by educators and administration. This article examines current research on gay and lesbian students' emotional needs, polices that address them, and the vital role that teacher training plays in setting the stage for equitable practices in education.

KEYWORDS:

• Canada
• education
• educational policy
• gay and lesbian students
• gay history
• homophobia
• teacher education