Unpacking Queer Identity and LGBTQ Inclusivity in Schools with Gerilyn Brault

Teaching While Queer: Advocacy For LGBTQ Folks In Schools & Education To Live & Work As Your Authentic Self

Ask A Queer Educator

Strap in for a riveting conversation with the dynamic and inspiring, Gerilyn Brault, a queer youth educator who takes us on a deep and personal journey into her life as a bisexual pansexual. Our conversation explores her journey to self-discovery, from the stirring moment she saw Sailor Uranus to her experiences growing up as a queer individual. We dissect the stigma around bisexuality, its roots in patriarchy, and how language and terms related to queer identities have evolved over the years.
We venture bravely into the controversial realm of inclusive education and parental involvement. Hear the shocking story of a drama teacher who faced backlash for his forward-thinking choice of play, and the worrying trend of increasing parental control in schools under the guise of child protection. We also delve into the critical role allies play in supporting the safety of all students and discuss the recent wave of violence against queer individuals.
Finally, we discuss the underrepresented presence of queer culture in classic literature, and the importance of creating a holistic approach to representation. We touch on Gerilyn's efforts in fostering inclusivity and joy in education, and the desperate need for plays that realistically depict queer stories and families. Wrapping up our episode, we discuss crucial strategies for checking students' social-emotional health and creating a safe space for expression. So sit back and gear up for an enlightening and empowering conversation.

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Follow Teaching While Queer on Instagram at @TeachingWhileQueer.
You can find host, Bryan Stanton, on Instagram.
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The podcast explores the challenges and successes of LGBTQ representation in education, addressing issues such as burnout, tokenism, doxing, and the importance of advocacy in creating inclusive classrooms, safe spaces, and anti-bullying strategies, with a focus on supporting non-binary teachers and gender identity in schools to combat the feeling of isolation and lack of community.

Chapters

1. Unpacking Queer Identity and LGBTQ Inclusivity in Schools with Gerilyn Brault (00:00:00)

2. Teaching While Queer (00:00:05)

3. Exploring LGBTQ+ Identity in the Classroom (00:07:14)

4. Inclusive Education and Parental Involvement (00:13:40)

5. Queer Representation in Theater and Education (00:25:55)

6. Fostering Inclusivity and Joy in Education (00:34:15)

7. Checking Students' Social-Emotional Health Strategies (00:46:41)