LGBT+ Hub
A school-based report by Stonewall in 2017 revealed that 53% of LGBT+ pupils say that there isn’t an adult at school they can talk to about being LGBT+. Our aim at Heart of England Training is nurture a culture of inclusion: to embrace diversity and to ensure that our academies and colleges are ‘safe spaces’ for all of our learners and staff. Whilst striving to ensure that our LGBT+ learners and staff feel safe, accepted, supported and included, we also aim to support all of our learners and staff to become better allies to LGBT+ communities.
We are currently working towards the Rainbow Flag Award: a national quality assurance framework which focuses on LGBT+ inclusion and visibility. Our commitment to the award is a commitment to improve the lives of all the young people that we work with, as well as the LGBT+ young people in our care, those from LGBT+ families and LGBT+ staff members.
Introduction to gender
There is no such thing as a 'biological gender' and someone's assigned gender is not their 'real' gender. Sex can be different from gender without invalidating either: a trans woman knows her body may be different from most women and align with most men, but that doesn't mean she has a 'male body'. Everyone has a gender identity, not just trans people, and 'gender identity' is the same as 'gender'. To say that a cis man 'is' male but a trans man 'identifies' as male is an example of microaggression which may be hurtful. The different aspects of gender may match each other or may not, and a person's gender identity is valid whether their expression aligns with that or not, and vice versa.
Importance of language
Language can have a huge impact on LGBT+ people's lives, so it's important that we try to be inclusive and respectful of people and their identities. Positive language helps to demonstrate acceptance and understanding, and can be very validating for LGBT+ people, improving confidence and self-esteem. Negative language highlights LGBT+ people as being different in a bad way, increases stigma, and can lead to isolation and mental ill-health.
Being an ally: top tips
Be aware of the physical, emotional and social issues connected with LGBT+ identities and experiences, and how these impact on people. Build supportive, person-centred relationships with LGBT+ people and practice healthy communication. Model positive language and active inclusion to others. Challenge discrimination, ignorance and misinformation when you see it. Be aware of LGBT+ support services in your area and signpost to them when needed. Keep learning and asking questions. Familiarise yourself with relevant guidance, policies, procedures and legislation.
Useful video resources
Why it is important to celebrate LGBT+ history?
LGBT+ people have existed throughout all time. However, due to LGBTphobic laws and societal attitudes that have existed throughout history, many of the accomplishments and achievements of LGBT+ people are unknown by many today. By highlighting the existence of LGBT+ people from history and their accomplishments, we can celebrate the impact their work has had, and use the opportunity to highlight the quality work and change that still needs to happen.
What are all the flags and why are there no ‘straight’ or ‘cis’ flags?
Over many years, LGBT+ communities have developed positive symbols, such as flags, to visibly show commonality, solidarity and support. You will see lots of these flags at events such as LGBT+ Pride: events that began as a protest to challenge discrimination. Straight cis people do not experience discrimination on account of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Straight and cis identities are affirmed and visible constantly in society (and often expected). Therefore, a straight and cis pride or protest has never been needed.