Exploring Queer Identities:

A Parents’ Toolbox for Success

Virtual Health & Wellness Parenting Series

 Hello!

Carlos Cruz Barry Morang

Film & Capstone Teacher, Beacon
Beacon High School
Charter Highfor the Arts
School
NAEA LGBTQ+ Interest Group: President
RIAEA Board: Programs & Conference Co-Chair
Elementary
Middle LevelArt
ArtTeacher,
Teacher East Providence RI District
NAEA LGBTQ+ Interest Group: Past President
NAEA Middle Division Eastern Regional Director
RIAEA Board: Programs & Conference Co-Chair
What is an Ally?
• Definition
• Purpose
• Becoming an ally
• Indicating you are an ally
 What is a
•Teacher role transforms into Teachers’ Role?
an ally and advocate.

•Create strategies to ensure

ALL students are safe and
welcome in your space.

•Setting guidelines to ensure

fairness to ALL, while
remaining an advocate, an
ally, a teacher and friend.
 Terminology

• Asking for the correct name and pronoun. • Say sorry and move on

• The meaning behind changing your name and • Strategies for ensuring all students use the
pronoun. correct name/pronoun
Key Terms t
Engaging with Your Children
Tips & Tricks!
 Actively listen

Be aware of subtle clues

Don’t ask more than they are willing to share

Build trust and gain confidence

Be open and available

 Know the school
and district policies.

• Be familiar with your school/district.

• Know YOUR support systems
• Know the STUDENT support systems
• Get comfortable with being uncomfortable
• Tread lightly: there is a time and place for everything
 Advocacy
• Forms of advocacy
• Things to do today
• Local organizations:
• PFLAG
• Youth Pride
Q&A
“Pride” by Scott Tobin, mural, 2009
 Every School Space is a Safe Space!
• Safe Space signs are posted in visible areas
in every school space. Available for download
at glsen.org
• Review the Ally Handbook. Also available at
glesen.org
• Please do not hesitate to reach out with any
questions.
• ccruz@beaconart.org
• Beacon Website:
• beaconart.org
 Resources
• https://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/WMQ19Q_Pride_Kelowna_British_Columbia
• https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2016/10/got-art-new-york-seeks-artist-create-lgbt-mural-greenwich-
village/
• glsen.org
• https://www.glsen.org/sites/default/files/2019-10/GLSEN-Research-Laws-that-Prohibit-Promotion-of-
Homosexuality-Implications.pdf
• https://i.pinimg.com/originals/2f/45/59/2f45597aa42f6bcce23632bacbf48017.jpg?ref=weheartit
• https://www.itspronouncedmetrosexual.com
• https://www.genderbread.org
• https://www.samuelkillermann.com
• https://www.glsen.org/blog/when-student-comes-out-youtoday-or-any-day