Why teachers/parents are afraid of implementing LBGTQ+ Themes in the classroom

• Many educators fear retaliation and personal discomfort
• Some teachers and parents believe that this is not a school issue and should not be mentioned in school.
• Some consider it not to be “age-appropriate”
• “Sexual innocence must be protected from the dangerous knowledge of homosexuality” (Flores)
• “Many people fear that if children learn about LGBT people, homosexuality, or receive sex education in the upper grades, their knowledge will lead to the practice of homosexuality.” (Flores)
• “A homophobic society fears that having LGBT-themed discussions, gay or lesbian parents, or gay or lesbian teachers on staff would influence or recruit young students to become gay.” (Flores)

Flores, G. (2012). Toward a More Inclusive Multicultural Education: Methods for Including LGBT Themes in K-12 Classrooms. American Journal of Sexuality Education, 7(3), 187-197. doi:10.1080/15546128.2012.707072