SOGI-inclusive education, introduced in 2016, focuses on creating a welcoming and supportive environment in schools for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Its goal is to stop discrimination and bullying faced by 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, providing classroom resources that can help teachers and students understand the experiences and challenges of 2SLGBTQ+ people. Importantly, it is crucial to understand that “SOGI-inclusive education does not encourage any specific identity or orientation over another and is designed to create a safe and inclusive environment for all students” (Ministry of Education and Child Care, n.d.).
SOGI education highlights the transformative power of education in shaping a more equitable future. By teaching students that families are built on love, whether between two men, two women, one man and one woman, we encourage an open-mindedness and challenge systematic biases from an early age. I think SOGI-inclusive education is a vital component of inclusive education. Also, learning to accept people as who they are can promote empathy, kindness, friendship, and a sense of community, helping students grow into compassionate citizens.
A pivotal realization for me was the alarming statistic from a study in 2019, showing that 39% of LGBTQ respondents wanted to commit suicide (Kraft, 2021). This number is awakening to educators. It is worth noting that this number dropped significantly with support from even one caring adult in their life. This underscores the critical role educators, families, and the broader community play in supporting 2SLGBTQ+ youth (The BC K-12 SOGI Collaborative, 2020) and the importance of SOGI education for everyone.
However, one area requiring further exploration is the role of parents in SOGI education. How to get parents involved positively in SOGI practices? I believe that guidance on how parents can engage with SOGI education or support their children during transitions would become invaluable to 2SLGBTQ+ youth.
Initially, I hesitated about when to introduce SOGI concepts to students. However, I now understand that SOGI can be taught in the form of age-based conversations (Kraft, 2021). For elementary students, topics like diversity in families and friendship can introduce SOGI concepts naturally. Kids might have noticed and had questions about sexual orientations or gender identities at their early age. When we can understand a child’s intent behind sensitive questions like “why are they holding hands?”, “are they boys or girls?”, we can provide clear, simple, and relevant answers. Avoiding the subject can lead to misinformation, while open, inclusive conversations can help students to build understanding and acceptance toward 2SLGBTQ+ individuals.
I found SOGI resources particularly helpful as it gives teachers ideas and materials to educate students about this topic age-appropriately. For younger students, stories are an effective way to introduce SOGI education. Books like Introducing Teddy can teach kids about friendship and embracing differences, suggesting them to call their friends the names they ask for (ARC Foundation, 2024). SOGI education doesn’t have to be complex. It can be simply woven into some topics like friendship, family, kindness, and community.
When teaching SOGI, I think that introducing related vocabulary in an age-appropriate way is also crucial. Moreover, incorporating the Indigenous concept of Two-Spirit can enrich the discussion, making it relevant for First Nations students. Two-Spirit is an Aboriginal term embodying both masculine and feminine spirits, encompassing gender, sexuality, and spirituality (Coast Mountains Board of Education School District 82, 2020). Note that it is a unique identity, not synonymous with gay or lesbian. Additionally, educators should emphasize respectful language use, ensuring that terms “gay” are understood as proper words and not be used in a hurtful way.
All in all, SOGI-inclusive education empowers students and embrace diversity, fostering a culture of respect, kindness, and belonging. I believe that SOGI education benefits everyone, helping us build an inclusive environment where all students feel safe to learn and thrive.
