I am very open and excepting of GLBT individuals. Some of my closest friends are homosexual. If a student approached me to “come out” I would support him/her and their information would be confidential. I feel that I will be a teacher that students can talk to in order to sort things out in their own minds. I might suggest that the student talk with someone else, such as a guidance counselor, if I felt the student would benefit from talking about it further. I would especially do this if the student was continuously negatively affected by freshly “coming out”. I would not talk to the student’s family or friends unless the student wanted me to.
In order to have my classroom be a safe space for students, I will create an atmosphere that does not allow discrimination. This idea ties into the discussion on discrimination, but no group will be discriminated against in my classroom. I know this is easier said than done, but art classrooms are usually laid back. In my experience, art classrooms are a safe place where students feel comfortable. My art room will be a safe zone and I will strive to have my students feel comfortable and free to talk about anything as long as respect is continuous. I will also discuss homosexual artists, based on content. I believe this is important because by not discussing the sexual identity of some artists, I would be depriving students of information that may be vital to their understanding of art. I also believe that incorporating this into my classroom will allow for acceptance, comfort, and support of homosexuals.
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I agree with your inclusion of homosexual artists in your curriculum and not hiding their sexuality, especially if it is reflected in their artwork. Just as incorporating female artists whose work may have been overlooked due to their gender, we also need to include other artists who may be ignored due to their sexual orientation. I feel that when teaching, especially from an (art) historical perspective, it doesn't help anyone to ignore certain facts that could help to create a broader and more comprehensive view of the subject.
ReplyDeleteI think one of the best things you can do is be there for them and show support by exactly what you plan to, by listening but also by incorporating LGBT artist in your curriculum, this is just another step in showing support.
ReplyDeleteI also think it is helpful if students are talking to you about their sexuality to include the fact that you know lots of different people who have experienced similar feelings. I always let students know that I have friends from all walks of life and I love each one of them as individuals. We can't choose who we love sometimes and being supportive is the most important thing. Great post.
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