Tag Archives: LGBTQrights

Creating Safe Schools: Actions Allies Can Take, Podcast

My first podcast episode, in which I list some actions allies can take to help make schools safer and more affirming.

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10-Meeting Jump Start Curriculum

Start Your GSA Off on the Right Foot It’s wonderful to have your GSA approved, your sponsor in place, and to begin planning your first meeting. GSAs can have different goals, and yours is probably defined in your mission statement. But all GSAs serve certain functions – creating a safe and welcoming space for students,Continue reading “10-Meeting Jump Start Curriculum”

Writing a Mission Statement

What is the Purpose of a Mission Statement? A mission statement is your club’s way of letting people know why you exist. What are your primary goals? What do you want to accomplish? Every club is different and goals will vary – some students want to engage in advocacy in the school and the community;Continue reading “Writing a Mission Statement”

Creating a Proposal Letter

So you are ready to begin the process of creating your school’s GSA. Start by submitting your proposal to the school administration. Talk with your administration before you apply, and, if possible, ally with them so that everyone is working toward the same goal – a safer, more inclusive school for all. Make sure youContinue reading “Creating a Proposal Letter”

Step Three: Enlist the Assistance of the Pre-Existing Power Structure

Sources of Community Support Local LGBTQ+ parent organizations (Mayberry, 2012) Allies in the school district School board members Local pediatricians Local mental health providers Local NASW chapter President State-wide NASW President Local university Education Department professors/chair LGBTQ+ graduates of the school Administration from schools with a GSA Create an Advisory Board Especially if one isContinue reading “Step Three: Enlist the Assistance of the Pre-Existing Power Structure”

Step Two: Show the Proven Benefits of GSAs to Students and the School

Proven Benefits of GSAs to Individual Students LGBTQ students involved in GSAs reported that the GSA helped them with 3 types of empowerment. The first is empowerment through knowledge – they knew their rights, and how to advocate for them. The second is personal empowerment – GSAs help students improve their self esteem and developContinue reading “Step Two: Show the Proven Benefits of GSAs to Students and the School”

Step One: Demonstrate the Need for a GSA

With Statistics The first step to demonstrating need is presenting statistics showing just how dire the situation is for many LGBTQ+ youth in our society today. You will find a list of statistics that you can cite to your school administration and school board, and the sources of the statistics, below. Click here for aContinue reading “Step One: Demonstrate the Need for a GSA”