Safe Havens for LGBTQ Students

Additional Resources

The author suggests superintendents tap into his district and other organizations for a fuller understanding of ways to build a safer and more welcoming school environment for LGBTQ students and families.

• Canadian Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity is a leader in anti-discrimination work and runs programming for schools in Canada and the U.S. Hundreds of volunteers make it possible for them to reach 250,000 people annually. Information about campaigns, such as the Day of Pink (see below) and downloadable resources are available.


• GLSEN is a national network of educators, students and local chapters to make schools more inclusive for LGBTQ students. Educator resources include information on organizing a “Day of Silence.”


• International Day of Pink is an international event to promote anti-bullying. It started when two high school students wanted to support a student who was bullied for wearing a pink shirt. On the Day of Pink, students and staff are encouraged to wear something pink as an act of kindness. It is held on the second Wednesday in April.


• Send the Right Message is a campaign created by Planned Parenthood of Toronto in conjunction with the Toronto District School Board and other groups on how high school students can support students who are LBGTQ.


• University of Toronto — Ontario Institute for Studies in Education published a short article and video on “Four Ways Schools Can Create Safe and More Welcoming Environments for LGBTQ families and Students." Also, research from University of Toronto and the project’s website.

TORONTO DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
(events, initiatives and guidelines)

• Safe and Positive School Spaces. A campaign to provide safe places for LGBTQ students.


• >TDSB EnVision Forum is a one-day annual conference for middle and high school students that offers LGBTQ students and their allies information and resource.


• TDSB Guidelines for the Accommodation of Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Students and Staff. The guidelines provide teachers and families with language to talk about gender diversity and inclusivity at school and identify online and local resources for LGBTQ families and students.