We involve LGBTA in the curriculum to prevent biased remarks (homophobic remarks), to prevent students from feeling unsafe in schools because of who they are (sexual orientation, gender expression, and race/ethnicity), to prevent students from missing class because they feel unsafe, and to prevent students from, harassment and assault (GLSEN, 2012, p.13).
We incorporate LGBTQ in Grade 8 with Social Studies in the topic of Power Authority and Dynamic Relationships. Power Authority Outcome: Contemplate the implication of Canadian citizenship o the life of Canadians. Indicator: investigate the effects of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedom an individual and groups (e.g. language rights: right to reasonable access to justice in trials; same sex marriage; civil protection). Dynamic Relationship Outcome: Assess how historical events in Canada have affected the present Canadian identity. Indicators: examine the influence of American mass media and popular culture on the Canadian way of life; analyze the similarities and differences in the values, beliefs, and ways of life of Canadians and Americans; compare the perspective taken in cases of injustice in Canadian history.
Having an inclusive curriculum will create fewer homophobic remarks, safe environment, higher attendance, classmates are more accepting of LGBTQ, students feel as though they are more connected to their school community (GLSEN, 2012, p.16).
Schools are also starting to create more Gay-Straight Alliances. Gay-Straight Alliances create safe spaces to support LGBTQ students. In schools with Gay-Straight Alliances homophobic remarks lessen, staff intervene more often when hearing a homophobic remark, students feel safer, students were less likely to be victimized, and students become more connected with their school community (GLSEN, 2012, 16)
LGBTA Project 