Lorenza Punzo & Valentina Buendía / Staff reporter
Society has grown and become more accepting of the LGBTQ2+ community, allowing more people to be themselves and hide neither their gender nor sexual identity. Unfortunately, there are still some people who are not as open-minded, educated, or even aware, which is why Canada and even Gleneagle’s own community is still growing to improve awareness.
Canada is a diverse society with many different gender and sexual identities. For example even the LGBTQ2+ acronym can be confusing for those who are unaware that it seeks to include lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual, transgender, queer, questioning, two-spritied, and their allies. The key is to create an environment where everyone is respected and acknowledged.
As an article published by the BC’s Fraser Health about Gender and sexual identity in schools notes that “creating an inclusive culture prevents children and youth from experiencing distress, discrimination, bullying and ultimately negative health outcomes”. Discrimination towards this community still occurs in Canada and therefore in all communities to some degree, including schools, which is why change needs to be made.
Some things that can be done are using inclusive language, being welcoming and inclusive to all members of this community, spreading awareness, expand one’s vocabulary, educate oneself and others.
An article on the GLSEN website, an organization that believes that every student has the right to a safe, supportive, and LGBTQ-inclusive K-12 education, notes that “students are most likely to reach their full educational potential in positive learning environments that are safe, secure, welcoming, and where they feel a sense of belonging. Research demonstrates that an affirming school climate leads to improved behavioral, academic, and mental health outcomes for all students. Not surprisingly, schools promoting LGBTQ-inclusive and affirming learning environments have fewer student absences and greater improvements in academic achievement across grade levels.”
While Gleneagle can be a very supportive community in the hallways, classrooms, and common spaces, some students have still experienced moments where they have been mistreated or hurt by the words or actions of others. Unfortunately, people do not realize the power of gender or sexual slurs – none of which are acceptable no matter their intent. Just like racial slurs are no longer acceptable, neither are these gender or sexual slurs.
Sometimes people don’t or choose not to use correct pronouns or don’t address members of the LGBTQ2S+ in their preferred way, making them feel devalued and isolated. Because of this, some teens become insecure, self conscious, and can even become depressed.
School district 43 itself even recognized in a recent joint statement against harassment, racism, and a non sexist environment and that all district workplaces are expected to be inclusive and not be involved in any discriminatory practices.
If students feel like they have been either unfairly or mistreated by any member of the Gleneagle community, there are multiple options available. Students can speak with an adult or teacher they trust, a school counselor or youth worker, or even a school administrator. Every school district staff member is required to provide a safe and inclusive environment.
Schools are supposed to be a place where students can find themselves and discover their likes, dislikes, make memories and make friends – it’s meant to be a place where everyone feels included and welcome regardless of the colour of their skin, their gender identity, or the person they choose to love.
Sources:
https://www.glsen.org/activity/respect-all-policy-recommendations-support-lgbtq-students