Every educational institution worldwide accommodates a considerable number of students who do not conform to traditional heterosexual norms. While some are aware that they were born with non-heterosexual identities, others are still grappling with their sexuality. Schools have a crucial role to play in helping these students become healthy and confident adults.
Although some students are fortunate enough to have a supportive environment comprising teachers, legal systems, families, and communities, others are not so lucky. In many countries that only recently established parity and tolerance laws, young people continue to face discrimination and abuse from their families or communities. Thus, it is more important than ever that schools foster environments of support and diversity celebration.
As someone who struggled with his sexuality growing up, I can attest to the terror that homophobic attitudes among my peers induced in me. Those distressing years motivated me to disclose my impending civil partnership ceremony to students in my role as a teacher. Being “out” as a teacher impacted positively not only those students struggling with non-heterosexual identities, but also their heterosexual peers. Exposure to gay, lesbian, bisexual, and trans role models holds significant sway over the younger generation beyond reading about gay celebrities. Moreover, when heterosexual colleagues demonstrate an unwavering commitment to celebrating diversity, the impact is all the more profound.
There are many stories of schools and teachers who engage positively with these issues by partnering with organizations like Stonewall, Educate and Celebrate, Schools Out, and Diversity Role Models. By providing training programs for staff, briefings for parents and students, and refining the curriculum, these schools create supportive and positive environments for students of all backgrounds.
The fear of a backlash from parents who do not support discussions of sexuality or understanding not only prevents open dialogue in schools but can be dangerous for the child’s well-being. Cultural and religious objections are not valid enough reasons for schools to shy away from their responsibility to provide and create a safe and supportive environment. In environments where children are forced to deny their natural-born identity, it can lead to confusion, hurt, and a struggle to reconcile their love for their families with conflicting societal and communal messages.
The damage to these children can be catastrophic, leading to increased likelihoods of suicide, self-abuse, substance abuse, and mental health issues. Schools must understand and respect cultural and religious identity but cannot let this come in the way of their duty to protect and educate children. Homophobia must be challenged as strongly as bigotry and racism.
Some institutions may find it more challenging than others to navigate this new and complex terrain. When school leaders are targeted by a small minority who feel that the curriculum aims to transform their child’s gender or sexuality, they should understand that it may be an uphill battle. However, they must stand up to ignorance and child abuse in all of their revolting forms.
David Weston, CEO of the Teacher Development Trust and Chair of the DfE’s Teachers’ Professional Development Group, wrote the above text.
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