Creating+Inclusive+Culture

Creating Inclusive Culture

 * Be Sensitive** to factors which may contribute to low self-esteem. The first step is simply becoming aware of the special needs and concerns faced by GLBTQ youth. Examine your own biases. Since most of us have come from a homophobic society, we are likely to be influenced by misinformation and fear-based attitudes. And whatever our health education setting, we can make sure to set and enforce clear boundaries (rules and norms) to ensure respectful behavior between individuals and to prevent harassment.


 * Be aware of heterosexism** or assumptions that identifying as heterosexual and having sexual and romantic attractions only to members of the other gender is good and desirable, that other sexual identities and attractions are bad and unacceptable, and that anyone whose sexual identity is not known is heterosexual.


 * Use "inclusive" language.** Unwittingly, many people alienate gay and lesbian youth with the language they use. Creating a culture or climate that is safe for and inclusive of gay and lesbian youth is important. (See the ReCAPP Learning Activity [|Six Simple Strategies for Including Gay and Lesbian Youth.])

We recommend another resource which can be viewed online and downloaded. "//Just the Facts About Sexual Orientation & Youth//" was developed as a primer for educators and is endorsed by several organizations who share a concern for the health and education of all LGBTQ teens. Organizations including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Association of School Administrators, the Interfaith Alliance Foundation, and the National Education Association developed this document to help guide dealing with controversies about homosexuality in their schools. You can view it online at [|www.glsen.org/].

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