The two organizations released a checklist for teachers who want to support their LGBTQ students.
“NEA is proud to partner with the Human Rights Campaign to promote this valuable and timely checklist to support LGBTQ student during this COVID-19 pandemic,” said NEA President Lily Eskelsen Garcia. “School buildings are closed for now, but the work of educators continues. And during these challenging times, we need to make sure that we continue to provide a safe and affirming learning experience for LGBTQ students during distance learning.”
- By using a free HRC Zoom background or by visibly displaying LGBTQ-affirming posters when speaking on screen, educators can quickly send the message that the learning environment repects and affirms LGBTQ identities.
- Educators can also normalize pronoun use by adding their own pronouns to virtual platforms and allowing space for students to share their own. It is important to note that not all students will have access to private connections. This may impact the name or pronouns they use as parents/guardians could potentially listen in.
- Educators should also talk to their students about internet safety and suggest affirming online options where they can connect with their LGBTQ peers and can receive support from trained professionals.
