Authenticity in Education: Grant Moss on Being a Gay Educator in a Conservative Landscape
The conversation explores the experiences of Grant Moss, a queer teacher in conservative states, and how his personal journey has influenced his teaching. The discussion covers topics such as the impact of media portrayals on the queer community, creating a safe environment for students, challenges faced in conservative environments, and advice for educators on being authentic. The conversation also touches on the importance of inclusivity in academia and the need for queer family to be recognized and supported. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of visibility and acceptance in creating a more inclusive society.
Teaching While Queer, Season 2, Episode 18
Ever found yourself at the crossroads of identity and profession, especially within the halls of academia? Grant Moss, an associate professor of English at Utah Valley University, joins us for a candid discussion about his lived experience as a gay educator in a traditionally conservative sphere. His journey from a childhood shrouded in societal homophobia to finding his truth in grad school, and how it's shaped his approach to teaching, offers listeners a glimpse into the resilience and adaptability required when one's authenticity is at stake.
As we trade stories, Grant and I shed light on the delicate art of cultivating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ students amidst the pressures of conservative and religious communities. Our exchange unearths the importance of visibility and subtle allies—whether it's a rainbow pin or a safe zone sign—that speak volumes to students grappling with their identities. Grant’s personal revelations, coupled with our shared strategies, underscore the impact educators can have on minimizing the emotional scars of queer individuals, simply by being present and supportive.
Closing on a note of introspection, we address the broader implications of queer identity within academia. From dissecting Shakespeare's sonnets through a queer lens to navigating the role of queer parenthood in an evolving society, Grant eloquently encapsulates the strides made and the strides still required for genuine inclusivity. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone invested in the enrichment of academic spaces, affirming the human right to live and learn authentically. Join us for a heartfelt exploration of what it means to be queer in the world of education and beyond.
To be a guest or to hear more episodes visit www.teachingwhilequeer.com.
Follow Teaching While Queer on Instagram at @TeachingWhileQueer.
You can find host, Bryan Stanton, on Instagram.
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Thank you for listening to this episode of Teaching While Queer Podcast! Please help support the podcast by leaving a review wherever you listen to the podcast.
You can find host, Bryan Stanton, on Instagram.
Follow us on Instagram at @TeachingWhileQueer
To be a guest or to hear more episodes visit www.teachingwhilequeer.com.
00:27 - Experiences of LGBTQ+ Educators in Academia
14:52 - Supporting LGBTQ+ Students and Minimizing Harm
25:33 - Parental Support and Queer Visibility
39:41 - LGBTQ+ Identity in Teaching Shakespeare's Sonnets
47:09 - Inclusivity in Academia and Queer Parenting
Grant Moss
Professor
Hey—I’m an English professor at Utah Valley University and I saw your ad about wanting guests for your podcast. I wasn’t sure if you were interested in talking to people who don’t teach K-12, but if you are, let me know.