Queer History And SOGI In Schools

Why these important topics should be and are taught to kids

Credit: Ideas For Good

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The Elephant in the Classroom: Erasure and Silence

You walk into a history class, and what do you see? Straight white men did this, straight white men did that. What about the LGBTQIA2S+ figures who have been at the forefront of civil rights movements, artistic revolutions, and scientific breakthroughs? They’ve been shoved to the margins, if not erased. Ignoring LGBTQIA2S+ history isn’t just an oversight; it’s a powerful act of erasure. When you scrub these figures from the narrative, you’re sending a message loud and clear: “You don’t matter.”

Now let’s zoom into the minds of LGBTQIA2S+ students. When they look at their textbooks and see zero representation, what do you think happens? Picture an erosion of self-worth, an internalization of the myth that they’re invisible or, worse, unworthy of acknowledgment. A series of studies have shown higher rates of anxiety, depression, and even suicidal tendencies among LGBTQIA2S+ youth who don’t see themselves reflected in society. This is not just some abstract debate about curriculum — it’s a life-or-death issue for many students.

So, let’s stop tiptoeing around this elephant in the classroom. Failing to include LGBTQIA2S+ history and SOGI in educational systems isn’t just a disservice to these students; it’s a cruel form of psychological violence. It’s a silence that screams.

Filling the Void: What Is LGBTQIA2S+ History?

First off, let’s demystify the term. LGBTQIA2S+ history is not some fringe topic; it’s a rich tapestry of narratives that capture the lives, struggles, and triumphs of people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, Two-Spirit, and more. This isn’t “alternative history.” This is history, full stop. It’s part of the bigger picture, colouring in the lines that have been arbitrarily drawn to divide us.

Now, if this history were a movie, some of its blockbuster moments would include the Stonewall Riots, the decriminalization of homosexuality, and the legalization of same-sex marriage. Picture the Stonewall Riots as the defiant middle finger to oppressive policing in 1969 New York. Remember decriminalization as the crumbling of laws that treated love as a crime. And see marriage equality as the moment the state finally acknowledged that love is love, no matter who you are. These aren’t just milestones; they’re seismic shifts that shook the world.

But let’s get one thing straight — LGBTQIA2S+ history isn’t just a list of dates and events. It’s intricately connected to issues of race, gender, and socio-economic status. The fight for queer rights has never been isolated from the struggle against racial injustice, gender inequality, or economic disparity. From Black trans women leading the charge at Stonewall to the impact of HIV/AIDS on low-income communities, this history is a lesson in intersectionality. Ignoring this complexity isn’t just an oversight; it’s a glaring error that warps our understanding of the world.

So next time you hear someone question the need for LGBTQIA2S+ history in education, remember: This is not a niche subject. It’s a multifaceted lens through which we can better understand society. And let’s be real, who doesn’t want a more complete picture?

Cutting Through the Noise: What Is SOGI?

Let’s not mince words. SOGI stands for Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity. This is not a club, it’s not a fad, and it’s not something you can choose to ignore. We’re talking about integral aspects of human experience, the sort of basic categories that influence how people navigate the world. Policies and curricula that don’t address SOGI are like ships without compasses: utterly lost and risking harm to all on board.

But why is SOGI crucial in policy and curriculum? Simple. When these aspects are integrated into school policy, it goes beyond lip service to create a safer, more inclusive environment. Imagine sex-ed that includes all orientations and identities or history lessons that feature queer heroes. We’re talking about laying the groundwork for a future where everyone can see themselves as part of humanity’s grand story, not as an outsider looking in.

Now, if you’re thinking, “I’m not LGBTQIA2S+, so why should I care?” — pause. Inclusivity benefits everyone. SOGI-inclusive education doesn’t just serve the LGBTQIA2S+ community; it enriches the worldview of straight, cisgender students as well. It helps break down harmful stereotypes and fosters empathy. And let’s be clear: an empathetic society is a healthier society, for everyone.

So let’s cut through the noise. SOGI isn’t just another acronym or a box to tick off. It’s a vital component of a well-rounded education and, by extension, a more equitable society. Say it louder for the people in the back: SOGI matters to us all.

Knowledge Is Power: The Benefits of Inclusive Education

Let’s shatter an illusion: education is not just about cramming facts into young skulls. If it were, we’d just hook students up to a data feed and call it a day. The truth is that education shapes minds and attitudes, and inclusive education does this on a steroid shot of empathy. When you tear down the caricatures and stereotypes that society keeps pushing, you make room for understanding. Imagine a classroom where kids learn that being gay is not a punchline and that transgender people aren’t to be feared or pitied. The lesson here? Compassion and understanding. In a world that’s quick to judge, those are currencies that never devalue.

But let’s expand this circle a bit. Inclusive education is not just good for the individual; it’s social glue. We’re talking about breaking down the invisible fences between communities. Do you think playgrounds are cliquish? Try society at large. But when you grow up understanding the battles fought by the LGBTQIA2S+ community, or the complexities of sexual orientation and gender identity, you’re more likely to see common humanity over division. Social cohesion isn’t just some fluffy ideal; it’s the bedrock of any functioning community.

Last but not least is intellect. This isn’t a one-sided lecture; it’s a dialogue that challenges students to think critically. When your history lesson goes beyond the “great man theory” to include marginalized voices, or when your health class addresses the needs of all sexual orientations, you’re not just diversifying the syllabus — you’re broadening minds. The capacity to consider multiple perspectives doesn’t just make students better learners; it makes them better humans.

So the next time someone questions the utility of LGBTQIA2S+ history and SOGI in education, just remind them: knowledge is power, and inclusive knowledge is powerful enough to change the world.

The Reality Check: Current State of Affairs

Hold up. Before we slap each other on the back and congratulate ourselves on how enlightened we are, let’s get real about where we stand today. Think your local school is the poster child for inclusivity? You might want to recheck that report card. As it stands, the inclusion of LGBTQIA2S+ history and SOGI in educational curricula is as consistent as a Wi-Fi signal in a basement. That is to say, it’s spotty at best.

Take a walk across different school districts or, hell, cross a border between states or provinces. You’re not just switching up the landscape; you’re stepping into entirely different educational worlds. Some places might have policies that look like they’re plucked from a utopian fantasy, while others seem stuck in a time loop, circling the bigotry of yesteryears. This isn’t about “local flavour”; it’s a tragic inconsistency that means the quality of education you get can depend on the luck of your geographical draw.

And let’s address the giant, partisan elephant in the room: politics. You can bet your bottom dollar that where you fall on the political spectrum has been weaponized to influence what kids are learning — or not learning — about LGBTQIA2S+ history and SOGI. Right-wing forces often paint these subjects as “indoctrination,” while progressive sides are accused of “cancelling” traditional values. Here’s a wild idea: How about we focus on education as a means to arm our youth with knowledge and empathy, rather than as a battleground for ideological warfare?

So, yeah, we’ve got work to do. The current state of affairs isn’t just a wake-up call; it’s an alarm blaring at max volume. The question is, are we going to hit snooze, or are we going to rise and shine?

Debunking Myths: Common Arguments Against Inclusive Education

Alright, buckle up, because we’re diving headfirst into the murky waters of myths and misconceptions. These are the tired tropes that keep popping up like weeds in the garden of progress. Let’s grab the weed whacker.

First on the chopping block: The “Too Young to Learn” myth. Opponents like to trot out this old chestnut, arguing that discussing LGBTQIA2S+ topics is inappropriate for young kids. But let’s get real. No one’s proposing to dive into the intricacies of sexual politics with five-year-olds. We’re talking about age-appropriate conversations. You know, like acknowledging that some families have two moms or two dads. Or that it’s okay for boys to like boys and girls to like girls. These are not shocking revelations; they’re basic facts of life.

Next, we have the fear-mongering around “indoctrination.” Please, hold your eye rolls. According to this line of thought, teaching about LGBTQIA2S+ history and SOGI is akin to brainwashing. Yet, somehow, learning about heteronormative relationships and history for years on end isn’t? Give me a break. The goal here is not to make everyone queer; it’s to make everyone aware. There’s a big difference.

So why do these myths persist? Well, they’re not just annoying; they’re harmful. When you cling to the “Too Young to Learn” myth, you marginalize young LGBTQIA2S+ individuals who are already navigating their identities. When you shout about “indoctrination,” you’re essentially arguing for ignorance over education. And, spoiler alert, ignorance is the kryptonite to any functioning, equitable society.

In short, these myths do more than just get facts wrong. They perpetuate harmful cycles of discrimination and exclusion. It’s high time we debunk these falsehoods and make room for the kind of education that benefits us all.

Your Role, My Role: Collective Responsibility

Here’s where the rubber meets the road. We can talk theory and blast myths until we’re blue in the face, but if we don’t act, we’re nothing but armchair revolutionaries. We need to recognize that this isn’t just an LGBTQIA2S+ issue; it’s a human issue. And yes, that means allies, too. Allies aren’t just passive bystanders; they’re active participants in building a more equitable world.

So what can we all do? For parents, it starts at home. Don’t shy away from discussions around diversity, even if it makes you uncomfortable. Educate yourself so you can educate your kids. Teachers, you’re the frontline warriors here. Integrate LGBTQIA2S+ topics where they naturally fit into your curriculum. It’s not about special treatment; it’s about equal representation. And administrators, listen up: your schools reflect your values. Create an environment where everyone feels seen and heard. Make sure policies back up the pretty words plastered on your school walls.

Let’s get the big picture for a second. Policy change isn’t some abstract, distant goal. It’s a reflection of societal attitudes. When enough people demand inclusivity in education, politicians and policymakers listen. They have to; it’s Political Survival 101. The more we normalize these discussions in our communities, the quicker we’ll see changes that ripple upwards, affecting not just curricula but societal norms.

In the end, this is about collective responsibility. Every one of us has a role to play in shaping the future. So whether you’re an educator, a parent, an administrator, or just a human being who cares about equity, it’s time to step up. Let’s not settle for a world where inclusivity is an exception. Let’s make it the rule.

Beyond the Classroom: The Ripple Effect

So we’ve dissected the classroom, but what about the world that waits just beyond those four walls? Here’s the game-changer: inclusive education isn’t just for K-12; it spills out into every corner of our lives. We’re talking seismic shifts in how society functions, from the corporate ladder to the halls of power and the squares of public opinion.

Picture this: a generation that grows up with a balanced, inclusive education hits the job market. Suddenly, the workplace isn’t just a grid of cubicles; it’s a microcosm of diversity. We’re not just tolerating differences; we’re celebrating them. Discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity has become as outdated as fax machines. Companies that embrace this shift don’t just score social points; they attract a more diverse talent pool. And let’s face it, diversity isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a catalyst for innovation and problem-solving.

But let’s not stop there. Imagine elected officials who grew up learning about the intricacies of sexual orientation and gender identity, or the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQIA2S+ community. This isn’t fantasy; it’s an attainable future. When decision-makers carry these lessons with them, the policies they create are naturally more inclusive. We’re talking about everything from equal opportunities in employment to fair housing and healthcare provisions. The political landscape could change from a field of battle to a forum of progress.

And then there are our public spaces. Whether it’s social media platforms, parks, or transit systems, inclusivity in education reverberates through them all. Public discourse becomes less about “us vs. them” and more about “we.” The graffiti of ignorance gets replaced by the art of understanding.

So the next time you think that what happens in the classroom stays in the classroom, think again. Inclusive education has the potential to be a ripple that turns into a wave, transforming not just our schools but our workplaces, politics, and public spaces. So let’s catch that wave and ride it to a more equitable society.

What’s at Stake

Let’s get crystal clear about this: the urgency of NOW isn’t just a slogan; it’s a rallying cry. Waiting around for some undefined future to suddenly be more inclusive is like waiting for a bus that’s never coming. While we twiddle our thumbs, the real damage is happening in the lives of LGBTQIA2S+ students and, by extension, society at large.

Here’s the cost of inaction: educational gaps. When curricula blatantly ignore the contributions and struggles of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, they essentially erase an entire demographic from history. The result? LGBTQIA2S+ students see themselves as anomalies rather than as part of the rich diversity of humanity. But it doesn’t stop there. These gaps spill into the rest of society, perpetuating stereotypes and feeding into harmful prejudices.

And let’s talk about social divisions. A lack of inclusive education fuels the flames of ignorance, and ignorance is often the bedrock of discrimination. When society is cleaved along lines of understanding and ignorance, guess what suffers? Our collective social cohesion. We’re not just missing out on rainbow flags and pride parades; we’re missing out on creating a society where everyone is afforded dignity and respect.

Then there’s the weight of lost opportunities. Think about the brilliant minds that might never realize their potential because they were too busy battling discrimination or internalized self-hate. In a world facing monumental challenges — from climate change to economic disparity — we can’t afford to squander any human capital.

So let’s cut through the noise. Inaction isn’t just a passive state; it’s an active choice to uphold a broken system. And what’s at stake is too immense to be put on the back burner. The time to act is not tomorrow, not after the next election cycle, but now. Because the future we’re waiting for is crafted by the choices we make today.

Resources and Further Reading

Alright, you’ve got the gist. Now it’s time to put those newfound insights to good use. If you’re chomping at the bit to dig deeper into the worlds of LGBTQIA2S+ history and SOGI education, don’t just stop at this article. There are plenty of heavy-hitters in literature, academia, and the digital sphere that can elevate your understanding. Here’s where to start:

Books to Crack Open

• “The Gay Revolution: The Story of the Struggle” by Lillian Faderman
• “Trans Bodies, Trans Selves: A Resource for the Transgender Community” edited by Laura Erickson-Schroth
• “Sister Outsider: Essays and Speeches” by Audre Lorde

Papers Worth Your Time

• “Incorporating LGBTQ Issues into Teacher Education: A Review of the Literature” by Bethy Leonardi and Sara Staley
• “The State of LGBTQ Youth Health and Wellbeing: Public Policy and Personal Lives” by Gary W. Harper
• “Teaching Intersectionality and SOGI: Frameworks and Strategies” by Mary Brydon-Miller and Jessica A. Nina Lester

Online Resources Not to Miss

• GLSEN Research
• Human Rights Campaign Educational Resources
• SOGI Education — UNESCO Guidelines
• Teaching Tolerance

There it is, a roadmap to levelling up your knowledge game. But remember, reading is just the first step. The real magic happens when you take what you’ve learned and use it to spark conversations, challenge norms, and push for change. So go ahead, hit those books and links, and come back armed with the knowledge to make a real difference.

Time for Action, Not Just Words

Look, we’ve scrolled through the facts, untangled the myths, and unpacked the stakes. But let’s not kid ourselves; awareness alone isn’t going to cut it. The road from knowledge to action is fraught with detours of complacency and pit stops of hesitation. So, what’s the play?

It’s time to roll up those sleeves and dive headfirst into the trenches of change. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, student, or just a concerned human being, you’ve got skin in this game. How? Engage with your local schools and boards. Know what your curricula look like and demand better if they’re not up to snuff. Advocate for inclusion in a way that goes beyond the performative. No more social media slogans devoid of substance. We’re talking boots-on-the-ground, voice-in-the-room commitment.

Laying down the challenge: If not us, then who? If not now, then when? It’s the age-old call to arms, and its urgency has never been more palpable. The longer we postpone action, the more we let ignorance grow like an unchecked weed in the garden of society. Every moment we don’t act, we forfeit a chance at a more inclusive, compassionate world.

So let’s dispense with the niceties and get down to brass tacks. Time’s ticking, and the status quo is a stubborn beast. Do we want to be the generation that said we could’ve, should’ve, would’ve, but didn’t? I don’t know about you, but that’s not a legacy I’m willing to leave behind. So let’s seize the moment, step up to the plate, and make a tangible difference. Because change isn’t just a concept; it’s a practice. And practice starts with action, not just words.

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As always, bigotry or any defence of bigotry in my comments will not be tolerated. Be kind, be equitable, and be inclusive.

How has queer history and SOGI education helped you?