The right to education is not limited to the pedagogic experience. Education is a key tool in promoting human rights, social justice, democracy and cultural diversity.
In a generally heteronormative school community, inclusive policies for LGBT students are often non-existent in school curriculums, teachers training programs and vocational training programs. Textbooks often represent the gender bias and inequity, the hidden and overt curriculum spread stereotypes and prejudices. Tackling factors of discrimination implies a common responsibility for all different actors involved (authorities, principals, teachers, staff, parents and students).
Initiatives challenging homophobia in educational practices are increasing the range of knowledge and ways to handle bullying, harassment, coming out, gender-identity based stigmas, LGBT behaviour, students with same-sex parents or students' first same sex love experience.
Every child and youth deserve an education free of violence and discrimination. Send abstract proposals on the question in order to share research, analysis, programs and initiatives working in progressive or conservative settings.
The following are examples of issues that could be addressed in the education theme:
- Implementing policies on equal opportunities: making safe school for all, from home to school.
- Teachers training and proffesional centres: curruculum, tools and resources
- Queer teachers and labour rights: Role-models and out teachers?
- New families and school: Same-sex parents and students that grow up with same-sex parents
- Academic freedom: LGBT and Queer research
- Making a difference in conservative educational settings
- Education and tools for human rights defenders