Students and LAs that identify as one or more of the following LGBTTQQIAAP (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, transsexual, queer, questioning, intersex, asexual, ally, pansexual) can face a great deal of isolation and bias within the classrooms. Here we provide some guidance and resources on ways to support them.
Be an Ally
Evaluate the way negative remarks about their sexuality or gender identity can affect their performance as an LA and as a student. One way of doing this is being mindful of how you communicate with them. Kognito offers a free online course for faculty and students to learn, practice, and self-assess their ability to manage conversations with LGBTQ+ students
Be willing to learn essential terms and model inclusive pronoun use
Familiarize the correct terms used among the community Glossary of LGBTQ-Related Terms. It is important to avoid assumptions about the gender of the person or groups we are speaking with and always try to use gender-inclusive language. If you make a mistake, correct it at the moment. There is a paper that focuses on how to be more inclusive in Biology but it can be used in all disciplines on how to model inclusive pronoun use and other important actions and essential terms to help the community. For more information, on how to create a more inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals, we encourage you to follow this link: Fourteen Recommendations to Create a More Inclusive Environment for LGBTQ+ Individuals in Academic Biology
Consider doing a Safe Zone Training
This is a free online resource providing curricula, activities and other resources for faculty to learn sexuality, gender, and LGBTQ+ education. Once you complete the training you can post the Safe Zone signs in your office and this will let LAs and students know that you’re LGBTQ-friendly, and are willing to challenge anti-LGBTQ language or harassment.
In your instruction, discover strategies for integrating LGBTQ perspectives into your curriculum and navigating challenges that may result. When forming groups, do not separate LAs/students according to gender and encourage all students and LAs to try different types of activities outside their traditional gender roles.
If you are interested in learning more on how to support the LGBTQ community please visit the following links for more information.
Glossary of LGBTQ-Related Terms
Helpful links to support LGBTQ
On-campus/ Local Community Resources
Honors College Pride Club, HonorsPride@fiu.edu