#9 Queering our schools

“How do we create classrooms and schools where each child, parent, and staff member’s unique, beautiful self is appreciated and nurtured?” (23)

This question resonates with me because it is something that I felt was lacking in the schools I attended growing up. In Catholic schools, there is a lack of discussion around the LGBTQ+ community and history. This concerns me because it is so vota; to understand one’s own individuality and to appreciate oneself as well as others for who they are. These valuable lessons should be learned in schools in order to help children understand how even if and when people are different from them they are equally valued, respected and appreciated. 

*I’d like to look at this question more in class if possible to unpack what it means.

“Community is built by working through differences, not sweeping them under the rug” (25)

After discussing the damages that bullying causes, this quote emphasizes the importance of working together by recognizing differences. Instead of following the status quo or not rocking the boat, together people can bring change when they bring issues forward. When people feel “swept under the rug” they do not feel valued, which is the opposite goal of education which should be to empower students to be the best they can be. 

“Sharing current stories of history making activists like Sasha…can inspire dialogue and understanding as we work to help schools catch up in the march toward justice” (26).

This quote expresses how every step will lead to another in the direction of justice. By sharing current stories of LGBTQ+ and allied activists with students, education can shift to be more supportive of the LGBTQ+ community. Seeing peers or other young people who are standing up for their rights can inspire others to do the same. This can also inspire people to stand alongside those who are standing up for what they believe in and fighting for justice.

https://youtube.com/shorts/a0wB8IVGEnw?feature=shared

I found this activity to be helpful and goes along with the story of understanding pronouns. 

https://images.app.goo.gl/ZXwZ3WTDfPWoCaYU7