Term
Fall 2021
Capstone
Capstone Project
Degree Name
MAT
Facilitator(s)
Karen Moroz
Content Expert
Kit Kogan
Abstract
Abstract
Carr, J. (2021). The Power of Language and Its Integral Role in LGBTQ+ Inclusion in Education Language plays a central role in our daily lives; it is through language that we name, identify, and differentiate everyone and everything in our world. It is through language that dominant, heteronormative discourses have been established surrounding gender and sexuality. Heteronormativity positions heterosexual and cisgender (identifying with the sex / gender assigned at birth) identities as normal and natural, while excluding and oppressing LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer / questioning, + other non-conforming identities) individuals. Despite a heavy push for ‘diversity’ and LGBTQ+ ‘inclusion’ in the world of education, schools are overwhelmingly toxic environments for LGBTQ+ identified (or perceived) students (GLSEN, 2019). As a queer person working in education, I noticed that educators, the most eager allies included, often lack awareness of how to talk about LGBTQ+ topics and identities. This prompted the research question: How does understanding language enable educators to move from being LGBTQ+ allies in intention to allies in action? The literature review offers insight into historical factors that have contributed to heteronormative dialogues, and highlights the usefulness of critical theories in uncovering the ways language is used as both tools of oppression and resistance to domination and control. The final product is a website dedicated to raising awareness around the importance of language as it relates to LGBTQ+ inclusion in education. Topics included on the website are intended to encourage educators to critically examine their own language use as it relates to LGBTQ+ inclusion, as well as all language for the ways it upholds systems of power and perpetuates the marginalization of ‘others’.
Project Type
website creation
Keywords
Gender, Staff Development, LGBTQ+ Inclusion, Diversity
Recommended Citation
Carr, Jay, "The Power Of Language And Its Integral Role In Lgbtq+ Inclusion In Education" (2021). School of Education and Leadership Student Capstone Projects. 737.
https://digitalcommons.hamline.edu/hse_cp/737
dc_type
text
dc_publisher
DigitalCommons@Hamline
dc_format
application/pdf
dc_source
School of Education Student Capstone Projects