Making School LGBTQ SAFE

 

The term "LGBTQ SAFE" has been used in various communities, with varying levels of success. Many people cite the gay liberation movement of the 1960s and 1970s as the root of the term. But while the term has gained a reputation for promoting social equality, many advocates feel that the message isn't being effectively delivered.

In the US, educators and activists are pursuing initiatives to make school more safe for LGBTQ students. This can include programs that are designed to educate allies on the community's needs. While this is a necessary step, it is not enough. Educators also need to be aware of their role in ensuring that schools are safe for all students, including those in the LGBTQ community.

Schools can be a safe place for children, but they can also be a hotbed of bullying. One way to keep students safe is to make sure teachers are well-versed on the social, emotional, and psychological needs of the LGBTQ population. By introducing introductory training, Safe Zone teams can help educators better understand assumptions about the LGBTQ community, fostering a safe and positive environment for all students.

Safe spaces can be created at home, in school, and in the community. It is important that students feel safe in their environments, as learning is a vital part of adolescence. If a student feels unsafe in their surroundings, they are less likely to attend classes or participate in extracurricular activities. However, there are different types of spaces and organizations that can be considered "safe."

One way to create a safe space for an individual or group is to establish a liaison. An LGBTQ liaison officer is a resource that can answer questions, provide information, and connect individuals to other resources within the community. A liaison can also help to build partnerships within the LGBTQ community.

Other efforts to promote safety in schools are based on the notion that educators and administrators can create an environment in which LGBTQ students can thrive. These efforts can be found in various forms, from GSAs to safe zones. Although there is a wide variety of approaches, they all have a common goal: to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all members of the LGBTQ community.

As the nation becomes more aware of the needs of the LGBTQ community, organizations such as Human Rights Watch and the Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island have implemented Safe Zones. These programs certify providers who are committed to providing care to LGBTQ SAFE patients.

Some states have laws that penalize LGBTQ+ people for sexual acts, while others penalize the dissemination of queer culture. Similarly, many countries have laws that prohibit public displays of affection from couples. And, as the recent Pulse nightclub shooting shows, there are consequences to such actions.

In addition to working with the LGBTQ community, educators are taking on other roles to help ensure that students are safe and secure in their schools. For example, a Safe Zone Allyship program in Oklahoma State University identifies allies in the school and campus community who are willing to discuss LGBTQ issues with students.