This document has been created to support teachers and staff in kindergartens and schools in having important conversations about inclusion.
Disclaimer: When using these recommendations, please take into account your country’s local legislation regarding educational activities and the rights of LGBTQ+ people.
Who are members of the LGBTQ+ community?
The LGBTQ+ community is not a single group of people, but a diverse range of individuals with different identities. It includes those whose sexuality or gender (and sometimes both) differ from generally accepted norms.
Despite their differences, these groups are united by a shared history: for centuries, they have faced persecution and discrimination. Being part of the community is important as it provides a sense of belonging, support and protection. In today’s world, inclusion is built on the principles of human rights and international standards that protect every individual regardless of their identity.
Terminology: what does LGBTQ+ mean
To create an accepting environment, it is important to understand the words people use to describe themselves. Labels help groups assert their rights and protect themselves from persecution.
- Lesbians: Non-male-gendered people who are attracted to non-men.
- Gay men: People who are not female and are attracted to people who are not female. Also often used as a general term for homosexuality.
- Bisexual people: Those who are attracted to people of more than one gender. This may also include pansexual people.
- Trans people: Those whose gender does not match the sex assigned at birth. This is an umbrella term that includes non-binary, gender-fluid and other people.
- Queer / Exploring: People who do not wish to use specific labels or are in the process of exploring their identity.
- +: Indicates other identities, such as asexual people.
A brief history of the path to inclusion
Homosexuality and gender diversity have existed throughout history in all cultures. Attitudes towards them have varied: from tolerance to brutal persecution. Understanding this helps us realise that modern prejudices are not ‘natural’ — they have been artificially created through laws and prohibitions.
Pre-Christian times
In many ancient societies, same-sex relationships and diversity in gender roles were the norm. For example, in antiquity, such relationships were often not considered strange or immoral.
The Middle Ages and the influence of religion
The situation began to change with the growing influence of monotheistic religions. Gradually, sex outside traditional marriage came to be regarded as sinful, which led to strict requirements regarding male and female roles. In the Middle Ages, severe punishments could be imposed for ‘moral transgressions’, yet many people continued to form relationships despite their fears.
The Age of Prohibition (16th–20th centuries)
With the development of state courts, punishments became harsher. In some countries, laws were introduced under which people could be executed for their sexual orientation. During the colonial era, these homophobic ideas were often forcibly imposed on other peoples where tolerance had previously existed.
Modern history and the struggle for rights
Even in the 20th century, prominent figures such as the mathematician Alan Turing were subjected to state persecution. One particularly painful phase involved laws prohibiting teaching staff from discussing LGBTQ+ issues with pupils. This made entire generations of young people feel ‘wrong’ and deprived them of the chance to receive support from the adults they trusted.
Persecution and discrimination today
Although the situation is changing, LGBTQ+ people still face violence and discrimination. One of the most dangerous practices remains ‘conversion therapy’ — attempts to forcibly ‘cure’ sexual orientation. Research shows that this is impossible and causes deep psychological trauma. There is also a continuing risk of hate crimes and everyday discrimination.
How can we make the environment more inclusive?
To support LGBTQ+ children or families, we need allies. Being an ally means looking out for those in vulnerable positions and supporting them.
- Education is not about sex. It is important to explain to colleagues and parents that conversations about inclusion are about respect, human relationships and the achievements of LGBTQ+ people.
- Identity is not a choice. A person’s gender and sexual orientation are innate, just like skin colour.
- Family diversity. Tell children that families come in all shapes and sizes: with a mum and a dad, with a single parent, with LGBTQ+ parents, or foster families. This teaches empathy from an early age.
- A safe space. If you hear a homophobic remark, calmly explain why it is hurtful. If criticism is necessary, direct it at the harmful idea itself, not at the children as individuals.
- Acceptance rather than judgement. For young children, inclusion simply means teaching kindness and acceptance that all people are different.
Why is inclusion important for everyone?
When we teach children about equality and diversity, we reduce the likelihood that they will grow up to be prejudiced adults. An inclusive environment develops problem-solving skills and teaches children to view the world from different perspectives. This prepares children for life in the real world, making them more empathetic and successful.
Glossary
- Conversion therapy: Attempts to forcibly change a person’s identity.
- Discrimination: Unfair treatment based on membership of a group.
- Gender identity: A person’s internal sense of self.
- Sex assigned at birth: The biological sex determined by doctors at birth.
- Non-binary people: Those whose identity does not fit into the binary system of ‘male’ or ‘female’.
