Embracing Diversity: The Dual Role of Gay-Straight Alliances

Y

27

Homosexuality; Social Attitudes; Sexual Orientation; Sexual Identity; Advocacy; Activism; Consciousness Raising; Foreign Countries; Social Bias; Clubs; Educational Environment; Social Change; High School Students; School Safety; School Policy; Bullying

1918-5979

The social landscape has changed regarding public knowledge, perception, and acceptance of "alternative" sexual lifestyles. In recent years, public and political discourse around issues of non-heterosexual orientations has shifted significantly. Despite many legal milestones, society has not realized complete inclusion of individuals whose sexual orientations do not conform to the mainstream, heterosexual majority. Non-heterosexual Canadians still experience negative repercussions of heterosexism in both social and institutional realms. This article discusses one important avenue of advocacy--gay-straight alliances--and takes the position that these alliances serve a dual role: education and social activism.

As Provided

67

2016

EJ1086834