In the latest episode of our podcast, we are joined by Willie Carver, the 2022 Kentucky Teacher of the Year, who gives us a captivating insight into his journey of resilience, activism, and teaching while being queer in a conservative state like Kentucky.
Willie's personal experiences growing up amidst the 90s AIDS narrative, and finding solace in school during a tumultuous childhood, provide a backdrop to the significant issues faced by queer students and educators today. His story highlights the importance of creating inclusive spaces in education and resisting oppressive systems that hinder this progress.
One of the significant points we discuss in the episode is the Rainbow Freedom Library, a student-led grassroots movement in Montgomery County, Kentucky. Born out of a desire for change, this initiative serves as a testament to the power of collective action and resilience. Despite the superintendent rejecting their grant for diverse books, the students persevered and found a way to share their resources with another school in need. This demonstrates the importance of teaching children to envision a better future and the heartbreaking reality when adults obstruct their hopes.
In this episode, we also delve into the troubling aspects facing queer youth, such as the generational trauma experienced and the alarming threat from politicians wielding "parental rights". This political landscape creates an oppressive environment for queer students and educators, making it essential to shed light on these realities.
Education plays a pivotal role in shaping society, and as Willie Carver asserts, educators have a significant role in resisting oppressive systems. Through the development of inclusive curricula and fostering an environment of acceptance and support, educators can contribute to shaping a more inclusive and accepting society.
Lastly, we explore the power of collective action in instigating change, as seen in the teacher's strike against the 2017 retirement bill and the formation of the Kentucky 120 United. This highlights the potential impact when educators unite and advocate for their rights and those of their students.
This episode serves as a wake-up call to the realities of queer life in Kentucky and beyond. It underscores the power of resilience, collective action, and the urgent need for inclusivity in our spaces of learning. As we continue to strive for an inclusive educational environment, the journey of Willie Carver serves as a beacon of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
