Blog Archives

Intersectionality in the curriculum

11/2/2020

In this week’s blog, we want to highlight the importance of considering intersectionality in discussions of queer identities in schooling and education. Taking an intersectional approach to our teaching means making students aware of the multiple forms of oppression and privilege individuals face and how they interact with one another.

In our interview study, we had the opportunity to discuss Victoria Mason’s experience navigating the education system as a racialized, queer women within a predominately white school. She highlights the importance of educators to understand intersectionality as something to be taught and expected in the curriculum.

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Beyond Black History Month: Complicating the Narrative

8/2/2020

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What happens when Black History Month is used as a token? When discussions of Black history and communities stop at the end of the month? When its powerful messages are not internalized? When it doesn’t include a reflection on how non-Black folks benefit from anti-black narratives? When it becomes a signifier of inclusivity instead of an appreciation and celebration of Black identities, histories and futurity? Beyond this month, what can educators do?

These are questions that arise every February at the onset of Black History Month, and become even more layered when accounting for the multiple and simultaneous oppression experienced by LGBTQ black communities, families and youth. Here’s a list of advice from our families and our research team that might be helpful in navigating these discussions:

Advice from our families:

Create a space where LGBTQ people and families are normalized and part of the fabric of the school (Victoria)
Intersectionality is taught and expected in the curriculum (Victoria)
Provide relevant literature and access to community resources that celebrate and centre Black LGBTQ communities (Jae and Daya)
Be open to learning and listening from your students (Jae and Daya)

*click on names for links to videos
Advice from the LGBTQ Families Speak Out research team:

Center futurity, thriving and affirmation
Moving beyond deficit narratives that frame Black communities in ways that reinforce stereotypes, harm and violence
Connect the struggle and resilience of Black communities through history to the discrimination and prejudice faced today
Recognize that the Black LGBTQ community is diverse and that no one voice can or should represent an entire community.
Unlearn anti-black thinking

How might you unintentionally benefit from it?
What steps can you take to be an advocate and ally of Black LGBTQ students and families?

artwork by joili on tumblr

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LGBTQ Families Speak Out celebrates Black History Month

2/2/2020

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This month, the LGBTQ Families Speak Out celebrates Black History Month. Over the next few weeks, we will be featuring stories from our families, resources for educators, and celebrating the contributions of Black LGBTQ communities.

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Intersectionality in the curriculum

Beyond Black History Month: Complicating the Narrative

LGBTQ Families Speak Out celebrates Black History Month

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