Understanding LGBTQ+ Pride Month
Use the four teaching videos with discussion questions to teach students about the struggles, progress and ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights.
As educators, we have a unique opportunity to create inclusive, safe and accepting spaces for our students. One important aspect of fostering an inclusive environment is recognizing and celebrating diversity, which includes the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) community. LGBTQ+ Pride Month is an important occasion to promote understanding, respect and acceptance among students. It is also a time to raise awareness of the challenges that LGBTQ+ people still face, such as discrimination, violence and lack of access to healthcare.
Understanding LGBTQ+ Pride Month
Traditionally observed in June, the month commemorates the Stonewall Uprising of June 1969, a pivotal moment in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and the progress made in fostering acceptance and inclusivity. Pride Month celebrations involve various events, parades and activities that showcase LGBTQ+ culture, history and achievements.
Create an Inclusive Classroom Environment
Educate Yourself. Start by familiarizing yourself with LGBTQ+ terminology, history and important figures. This knowledge will enable you to better understand the experiences and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, allowing you to address sensitive topics confidently.
Foster Open Dialogue
Create a safe and respectful space where students feel comfortable discussing LGBTQ+ topics. Encourage open dialogue, questions and conversations that promote understanding and empathy. Emphasize the importance of respectful language and active listening.
Highlight LGBTQ+ Contributions
Spotlight the achievements and contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals in various fields such as literature, science, art and civil rights. This will challenge stereotypes and broaden students' understanding of LGBTQ+ individuals' positive impact on society.
Remember, it can be instrumental to learning when you can foster an inclusive and respectful environment for discussion, allowing students to share their perspectives and experiences. Encourage empathy, active listening, and open-mindedness while exploring the struggles, progress and ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights.
Here are four videos with discussion questions to get lessons started:
Stonewall Uprising: The Fight Against Oppression
Questions for Discussion
- What were some of the factors that contributed to the tensions and frustrations leading up to the Stonewall riots?
- How did the Stonewall riots impact the LGBTQ+ rights movement?
- Can you draw any connections between the Stonewall riots and other civil rights movements in history and today?
AIDS Memorial Quilt: Raising Awareness a Stitch at a Time
Questions for Discussion
- Why do you think the AIDS Memorial Quilt is considered an important symbol of remembrance and activism?
- How does the AIDS Memorial Quilt honor and celebrate the lives of individuals affected by the AIDS epidemic?
- In what ways can we support and honor the legacy of the AIDS Memorial Quilt and continue to address the ongoing challenges surrounding HIV/AIDS?
Fight for LGBTQ+ Rights
Questions for Discussion
- What are some of the common challenges and barriers that LGBTQ+ individuals have faced and continue to face in their pursuit of equality and acceptance?
- How have legal and legislative changes influenced the advancement of LGBTQ+ rights? Can you think of any specific laws or court cases that have had a significant impact?
- In what ways do intersectionality and the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals from different backgrounds (race, gender, class, etc.) affect the struggle for LGBTQ+ rights?
The Lavender Scare
Questions for Discussion
- What were some of the reasons behind the government's targeting of LGBTQ+ individuals during the Cold War era?
- How did the Lavender Scare intersect with the broader anti-communist sentiment of the time?
- Can you draw any parallels or differences between the Lavender Scare and other instances of discrimination or persecution in history?
Check out and learn more at UntoldEdu History Channel on YouTube, and follow up on Instagram and Twitter @UntoldEdu. Learn more:
LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Educator Resources
Support and celebrate LGBTQIA+ students and inspire meaningful advocacy with these free lesson plans, activities and educator resources.
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