Inclusive Environments and LGBTQ+ 101 Training: Workshop & Commentary
- Brielle Byrne
- Oct 15, 2017
- 3 min read
A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of attending a workshop on creating inclusive classrooms for LGBTQ+ youth run by The Aids Society in Windsor and The Windsor-Essex Health Center. Their goal is to educate future teachers to help in ending the stigma around LGBTQ+ people everywhere. The first step IS educating the educators. While thinking I knew a lot about that population, I was surprised at how much I actually learned. We went over pronouns, proper terminology, the questions to ask and how to approach a youth who is struggling. We talked about how our future classrooms will look, and how we can be sure to create a student centered, inclusive for all, environment. I was given resources and booklets filled with rich information and useful tips. Doing this workshop had us brainstorming ideas for inclusion in both very obvious (story books, language, exposure to topics) as well as in subtle ways (posters in the classroom, inclusive pronouns when talking to a group, and purposeful choice of classroom centers.) I figured I might immortalize this list for myself by creating a list of things I plan on implementing into my future classroom, and maybe you will too!
1. Inclusive language (pt 1) : When speaking to the class, use words other than "boys and girls". Aim for "everyone", "friends", "class" or even "Y'all"!
2. Classroom images and story books: Include diverse class room posters and books showcasing different family situations as well as various characters. A family with two moms, two dads, maybe a dad in a wheel chair, maybe a mom and a son, and a father and a daughter. Use those resources!
3. Get the info: Introductions to a class where you ask to introduce your pronouns as well as your name and etc. (probably only with older students who understand what a pronoun is). During thr workshop, the leader asked us to introduce ourselves and include our pronouns. Being a very cis female, I had never done this before. It's a great way to know who you're working with. In my opinion, this should be the norm in classrooms and workshops all over.
4. Includisve language (pt 2.): Using terms like 'Parent' & guardian instead of mom and dad. Some students may only have one parent, or two parents of the same sex. Also, keeping in mind some students might not even live with "mom and dad". Try guardians as a way to include all.
5. How to 'help': If a student confides in you about sex, gender or any other type of identiy related topic, try asking them what they need from you, as opposed to assuming and or guessing what they might need. Needs for students vary, and what would work for one, may not work for the other: So do not be afraid to ASK.
6. Pronouns: This was something we spoke about in length. Once you're used to a certain pronoun (her and she, or him and he) and now you've been made aware that the person identifies as another pronoun, it's crucial to respect that. During the workshop, many of us asked about what to do if you accidentally slip up when speaking to someone, and happen to use the wrong pronoun. Our leader advised us that the best thing to do is to apologize, correct yourself, and move on. Dwelling on the mistake just makes it awkward for everyone.
This is honestly a small sliver of what we discussed in the workshop. We were given pamphlets, resources and informations on who to call regarding any other questions. I've included some of the slide photos that were mentioned during the workshop as well. Gender and sexuality is something that is constantly changing and eveolving. As educators (and frankly as humans who interact with other humans) it's important to stay educated on as much as you possibly can.
If you're looking for some inclusive storybooks, check out this post for ideas!
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