Acceptance, Inclusion, Advocacy: Creating a Generation of LGBT Allies in the Elementary School

The aim of this qualitative research study was to discover the ways in which primary and junior educators can work towards creating school environments that are safe and inclusive for individuals of all gender and sexual identities. The main research question of this study was: How do educators create equitable and inclusive environments within the elementary school community in order to create “safe spaces” for students with diverse gender identities and sexual orientations? Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with three participants who had worked in the field of education for a minimum of two years. The findings of this study indicate the need for continued LGBT equity work in schools, due to the persistent existence of homophobia and transphobia amongst students and staff. In order to decrease instances of discrimination based on gender or sexual identity, this study demonstrates the importance of individual student support, infusion of LGBT themes in classroom teaching, and whole-school LGBT equity programming. The experiences of educators in this study and within existing research determines the need for increased funding and support for educators who engage in LGBT equity work, as well as the need for solidarity from fellow staff and administrators