lgbtq CUTURAL PRESENTATION rATIONALE

EDSS 442 LGBTQ CULTURAL PRESENTATION RATIONALE
CRAIG M BLACK

The rationale for our presentation was, in my opinion, to help our fellow teachers understand, recognize and stand up for the rights of their students to be safe at school.
These rights are for all students, not just the LGBTQ group that we covered. What prompted me to research this group and this topic was the fact that as a child I was brutalized, and beat up for being smart, quiet and possibly effeminate. I am not gay but I lived their struggle and no child should have to live or learn in fear.
My goals for the lesson were the same as my group: Awareness of injustice and statistics that support the reality of what these kids face, the ability to support, Recognize and create Safe spaces where students can feel sanctuary from the cold world of the high school halls, And have some skills in regards to dealing with intolerance and homophobia
In their own classrooms and schools.
Our into was a bit strong and possibly offensive to some but I feel we got the point across. I was responsible for the outcome of our vocal bashing session. I do defend what I was attempting to do, which was to expose the sheer volume of deviant slurs aimed at gay and transgendered people. A sense of awareness of just how far it can go gives teachers some guidelines of what to look for and be aware of in their schools.
I also feel that I was successful in addressing the goals of acceptance vs tolerance and how we as new teachers will be at the front lines of creating diverse and safe environments for learning. In retrospect, probably more editing of the terms used. Maybe more focus on what we were looking to communicate to our fellow teachers in regards to how LGBTQ students navigate the "scary" parts of a school.
Our through was much more about becoming teachers who are aware that these conditions do exist . Also how we can make our classes’ safe havens that teach trust and awareness of diversity and it's benefits to all students, teachers, faculty, and community that help make up a school.
Our Through and Beyond was a powerful mix of statistics, poignant video imagery and vital discussion. We prompted these activities with class discussion and small focused group work including a strong jigsaw. It is a shame that we had so many issues with the technology, but Erik had worked many hours to create a flawless PowerPoint to support the whole segment. SSU needs to repair that Smartboard.
By ending the presentation with a pledge to act we asked our colleagues to ask themselves” Am I committed to diversity and creating a safe school?”
I feel that our interactive blog has become a treasure trove of connections, facts, current events and information which will be a great resource for anyone who reads it and follows the many links.
I am very proud of my group and feel we worked as a team to create a great presentation for all, INTO, THROUGH AND BEYOND.
I know that I will be an ally to any and all students who need me, not just LGBTQ. My room will be a safe haven where all types of people can feel comfortable and equal in my eyes, and my presence.
I’m glad I was able to be a part of such meaningful work, Change can happen if people are engaged.