Teach to Reach: Addressing Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Youth Issues in the Classroom

Abstract

This article explores the delicate and complex issues immediate to the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth. The author places the discussion within the context of learning environments and presents ways in which pre-service and in-service teachers can help create safe and equitable spaces for all learners. Presented are various classroom strategies, activities, and resources for educators to tap into and utilize.

Notes

Chasnoff, D., Cohen, H. (Producers). (1996). It’s Elementary: Talking About Gay Issues in School. (Documentary). San Francisco: Women’s Educational Media.

Dupre, J. (Producer). Dupre, J. (Director). (1997). Out of the Past: The Struggle for Gay and Lesbian Rights in America (Documentary). Westwood, CA: Ardustry Films.

Pan Left Productions (Producer), & Potter, N. (Director). (2002). Voices of GLBT youth. (Short film). Tucson: GLSEN.

Sharp, J., Hart, J., Kolodner, E., & Vachon, C. (Producers), & Peirce, K. (Producers). Peirce, K. (Director). (1999). Boys don’t cry. (Motion picture). California: Fox.

http://www.commercialcloset.org—Commercial Closet is a non-profit education and journalism organization that examines worldwide media representations of gay men, lesbians, bisexuals, and the transgendered.

http://www.gsanetwork.org—the Gay/Straight Alliance network is a youth-led organization that builds alliances between gay-straight school programs, and presents schools with education initiatives that focus on peer support and professional development.

http://www.glsen.org—the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network works with schools and communities to make sure that every individual is respected despite gender identity or sexual orientation.

http://www.nea.org—a national association with a membership of 2.7 million educators and professionals. The NEA provides programs and services that promote excellence in teaching, community support, and professional development.

http://www.tolerance.org—a non-profit organization that offers programs that focuses on teaching tolerance by building community and diversity, while minimizing hate and bigotry.