• Confronting Religious Arguments

    Recently we released a special report on guidelines for addressing religious arguments. This document can serve as a tool that you can use in your community to create dialogue about the immense harm caused to LGBT individuals, especially youth. Download the report here.

    Watch examples of this messaging at work at a recent community forum.

Curriculum for School Counselors, Teachers & 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.

The lesson plan and parental guide are only suggestions. Feel free to adjust them to fit your purpose and group.

There are many other actions your school can take to help combat religion-based bigotry, fight bullying, and promote a safe learning environment for all students. Below are some suggestions:

  1. Hold an assembly discussion with a Faith in America representative on the history or religion-based bigotry in America and its role in society today.
  2. Have a civics class could hold debate on religion-based bigotry with one student advocating anti-gay religious position while second student advocates ending the harm caused by religion-based bigotry.
  3. Guidance counseling staff and school social workers can feature CRISIS and “For The Bible Tells Me So” as resources for students and parents.

  → View & Download Crisis Lesson Plan

  → View & Download Crisis Discussion Guide