Growing up can be hard for all students, but for LGBTQ youth and youth of color, it can include trauma, fear, and even risk of abuse. We believe that educators have a responsibility to help make LGBTQ youth feel safe and supported in their community so they can focus on schooling and thrive. In this session educators will learn how to create safe and supportive school environments and equip them to be allies for LGBTQ+ youth in their communities. This session will focus on: Unpacking personal biases that shape how we view the LGBTQ+ population. Offer suggestions on how to create spaces in schools that are not only safe, but also affirming of LGBTQ identities and that have the potential to be constructive spaces of dialogue. Help participants interrogate what it means to be an ally for LGBTQ youth.

Improving Schooling Conditions for LGBTQ+ Youth