Creating Safer Spaces for LGBTQIA+ Youth
Summary
My presentation will revolve around the subject of LGBTQIA+ youth, particularly their relationship with k-12 schools. For many LGBTQIA+ youth, home does not feel like a safe place where they can be their most authentic selves. Unfortunately, neither does school. As places where the needs of youth are served, schools often do not meet the needs of LGBTQIA+ students. Participants in this session will gain an understanding of why schools and school staff need to be more cognizant of meeting these students' needs. They will also discuss tangible, implementable ways of better serving LGBTQIA+ students and for creating safer spaces in schools for these (and all) students. Some of these solutions include examining school policies, hosting GSA clubs, using personal pronouns and preferred names, and visible signs of allyship both from the staff and within the physical building. When schools act as safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ youth, they can literally save students' lives.
Creating Safer Spaces for LGBTQIA+ Youth
My presentation will revolve around the subject of LGBTQIA+ youth, particularly their relationship with k-12 schools. For many LGBTQIA+ youth, home does not feel like a safe place where they can be their most authentic selves. Unfortunately, neither does school. As places where the needs of youth are served, schools often do not meet the needs of LGBTQIA+ students. Participants in this session will gain an understanding of why schools and school staff need to be more cognizant of meeting these students' needs. They will also discuss tangible, implementable ways of better serving LGBTQIA+ students and for creating safer spaces in schools for these (and all) students. Some of these solutions include examining school policies, hosting GSA clubs, using personal pronouns and preferred names, and visible signs of allyship both from the staff and within the physical building. When schools act as safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ youth, they can literally save students' lives.
