Creating LGBTQIA+ inclusive spaces in education
June is Pride Month, a period dedicated to the celebration of the LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual and other identities) community, and the commemoration of its achievements and contributions to culture. While Pride Month is a joyful occasion, often marked with parties and parades, it also serves as a crucial reminder of the long history of challenges the community has faced and continues to face. Every year, Pride Month encourages individuals, groups, and organisations from all areas of society to reflect on their actions surrounding equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI).
For oppressed groups like the LGBTQIA+ community, EDI is not just a box-ticking exercise, but rather a vital part of everyday life. With this in mind, it’s no surprise that inclusive educational spaces have been found to produce increased attendance and improved mental health outcomes for LGBTQIA+ individuals. When someone feels included and respected, they are far more likely to stay engaged, achieve academically, and go on to thrive in their chosen career.
At VetSkill, we recognise our responsibility as an awarding organisation and end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) to lead the way and help shape the educational spaces with which we are involved. The Stonewall School Report (2017) found that more than two in five LGBT pupils don’t feel part of their school community. This number is still far too high and should act as a wake-up call for educational spaces to review and reevaluate their efforts towards inclusivity.
This blog details several initiatives that are worth considering as part of your LGBTQIA+ inclusive action plan. Each one aims to benefit members of the LGBTQIA+ community, assisting them to succeed academically and grow in an environment where they feel psychologically safe.
Inclusive language
The language we use every day plays a major role in shaping the ideologies of those around us. In other words, how we speak and write matters.
Using inclusive language means acknowledging the diversity of our society and not creating barriers to teaching through exclusion. For example, addressing a group by saying “ladies and gentleman” is exclusive of non-binary individuals and can often make them feel invisible. Instead, phrases like “everyone” and “folks” are more gender neutral.
Similarly, it is important to avoid assuming the gender, pronouns, or sexual orientation of another person and opt for gender-neutral choices like “they” where this information is unknown. Remember that it is a respectful practice to ask for someone’s pronouns, and it’s a good idea to implement this routinely within your institution.
Authoritative figures within educational spaces function as role models and should pay attention to how the language they use influences those they teach. In addition, they have the power to consistently challenge bullying, incivility, derogatory language, and language that reinforce stereotypes.
Find out more in VetSkill’s Pronouns and Inclusive Language Guidance.
Resources and support
As educational organisations, we have a duty of care to provide support for the safety and wellbeing of learners, particularly those who fall within oppressed groups and may be more likely to experience bullying and discrimination. Ensuring that confidential support services are made available can be vital for LGBTQIA+ individuals. This could include groups, helplines and staff that are exclusively responsible for wellbeing.
Staff members work closest with learners and should therefore have the training and tools to know how to support LGBTQIA+ people, whether they are struggling with their identity or facing discrimination. They should work to identify professional development opportunities that recognise the diversity of society and benefit members of oppressed groups like the LGBTQIA+ community. This should involve training on how to signpost effectively, and encourage reflection, helping them to challenge their own biases.
Policies
Inclusive policies are the backbone of any meaningful EDI initiatives within an educational setting. Educational institutions should regularly assess the effectiveness of their policies by obtaining feedback from LGBTQIA+ learners. This includes anti-bullying and harassment policies that clearly define unacceptable behaviours and outline the consequences of discriminatory actions based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.
Equally important is the presence of a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination. Learners and staff should be made aware of these policies during induction and through ongoing training and be given the mechanisms to be able to report bullying or discrimination safely, reinforcing a culture of accountability and respect.
Visibility
For many LGBTQIA+ people, entering a new setting can be a daunting experience, filled with uncertainty about whether they will be accepted for who they truly are. Being open about these topics and actively promoting your institution as an inclusive space not only reassures LGBTQIA+ learners and staff but also sets a clear standard for respect and equity within your community.
Improve your visibility as an inclusive space by incorporating inclusive imagery and messages throughout your premises. Display posters that celebrate LGBTQIA+ identities, use signs that promote respect and inclusion, and ensure that displays reflect a diverse range of people. The presence of rainbow flags, particularly during Pride Month, can help to reinforce your institution’s support of LGBTQIA+ individuals and ensure that everyone feels they belong. Online visibility is also just as important: share messages of support, link to LGBTQIA+ resources and celebrate Pride Month on your institution’s social media channels and website as well.
These small but meaningful gestures can significantly contribute to creating a psychologically safe learning environment. See some examples below of how we promote inclusion throughout VetSkill Head Office.
While Pride Month encourages us to reflect on our approach to inclusivity, our efforts should not be limited to one month out of the whole year. True inclusion requires ongoing commitment and continuous learning. By embedding LGBTQIA+ inclusivity into our language, support systems, policies, and everyday practices, we help to create educational environments where every individual feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed.
Happy Pride Month from VetSkill!
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