It is often in school that LGBT kids face bullying, physical violence and hurtful name-calling. Schools should be a safe place for every kid. Unfortunately, many LGBT kids struggle to get through the school day as they fear what might come at them.
According to The Trevor Project, nearly 90percent of gay students across the country experienced harassment in school and two-thirds say they feel unsafe at school because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
In Minnesota’s Anoka-Hennipen County School District, three gay and lesbian teenagers took their lives in the last year alone. While we don’t know all the details, there is no question that harassment at school played a role.
Unfortunately, the basis for much of this bullying is found in religion-based bigotry. Many young people are brought up to believe that LGBT people are different or “other,” that their sexual orientation is a sin and abomination, and that they choose to be gay in direct defiance of the teachings of the bible.
By educating students and teachers, along with school boards, administrators, counselors and nurses, about the roots and harm of religion-based bigotry, schools can reduce bullying and harassment and provide a safe place for all kids to learn.
Below are some examples of the things that can be done in your school community to help educate about religion-based bigotry and create that safe environment for LGBT youth.
Gay-Straight Alliances
A Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) is a student-run club in a high school or middle school that brings together LGBTQ and straight students together for mutual support.
Curriculum for School Counselors, Teachers and Administrators
Our book, CRISIS: 40 Stories Revealing the Personal, Social and Religious Pain and Trauma of Growing up Gay in America can provide a compelling and productive outlet to discuss religion-based bigotry, the harm it causes and the history for students and adults alike. If your school would like a copy of Crisis, please contact us at Faith in America.
In cooperation with the Richmond Organization for Sexual Minority Youth in Virginia, a lesson plan and parental guide have been developed for your use. This could be done in classrooms, afterschool for clubs such as a GSA, at a community center, church or at a house party.
→Read more about curriculum and get sample lesson plans…