Teaching While Queer, Season 2, Episode 21
It takes a special kind of courage to navigate the educational field while embracing a queer identity, a truth SJ Janjua (they/them) and I know all too well. As we sit down for an open-hearted dialogue, our shared narrative unfolds, revealing the nuances of being queer, trans, non-binary educators. SJ, founder of Empowered for Equity Consulting (https://www.empoweredforequity.com/) , and I, Bryan Stanton, peel back the layers of our personal and professional journeys—discussing everything from our mixed-race backgrounds and the struggles of growing up feeling invisible to the profound impact these experiences have on our advocacy work.
The classroom can be a battlefield for identity, and creating spaces where one can teach authentically without fear is no small feat. Throughout our conversation, we celebrate the victories, lament the challenges, and offer practical wisdom for educators longing to foster inclusivity. From my transformation from a once-closeted high school English teacher to a champion for LGBTQ+ inclusion, to SJ's enlightening perspective on intersectionality and its crucial role in shaping educational experiences, we explore the joy of connecting with queer educator communities and the ever-present need for systemic change.
You won't just hear stories and reflections in this episode; we're here to equip and inspire. SJ and I share strategies and actionable advice for queer teachers trying to chart their path in an often-unforgiving profession—underlining the significance of allyship, legal protections, and the collective work needed to cultivate safer educational spaces. Together, we underscore the urgency for schools to take a bold stand, ensuring that support for 2SLGBTQ+ staff and students is not just a momentary gesture but a sustained, strategic effort. Join us as we affirm our mission to advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in education, and consider this an invitation to engage and collaborate in this transformative endeavor.
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