"Gay Is Okay:” Be Real, Be Bold, Be Better

Abstract

This manuscript captures recent legislative policy and proposed practices that restrict the rights of LGBTQ+ students and allies in the classroom and disrupt teachers from creating affirming, supportive classroom environments. The authors, as activists and educators, want teachers to say, “It is okay to say ‘gay’,” and “It is okay to be gay” in opposition to “Don’t say gay” ideologies. Teachers are provided with the tools to combat oppression in all forms and create inclusive classrooms focused on justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. Teachers are encouraged to be real, bold, and better to weather this legislative flurry. To “be real,” teachers must be aware of the legislative initiatives, implications, and impact. To “be bold,” teachers should educate themselves with district policies, curriculum standards, and national LGBTQ+ networks. Finally, to “be better,” teachers must validate students through connections to critical literacy practices, culturally responsive and inclusive pedagogy, and LGBTQ-themed literature.