Do not act surprised when someone "comes out" to you, tells you
they think they may be gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender. The person
may have tested you with a series of "trial balloons" over a period of
time, and decided that you can be trusted and helpful.
Remain a neutral source of information and support to all students at
all times.
Respect confidentiality. GLBT youth who share their identity with you
trust that you will be respectful. Many GLBT youth feel alone, afraid, unsure and guilty.
Some GLBT youth feel empowered by their identity and are impatient with
institutions which have not changed to accept them. You can help by
listening, allowing them to discuss feelings and thoughts.
Understand the meaning of sexual orientation. Assess the young person's
level of understanding. What do they know? How do they feel about it?
Ask, "Do you think you might be gay? What messages have you heard about
homosexuality?" Replace misinformation with accurate knowledge.
Don't assume that GLBT youth know a lot about human sexuality. We have
all been exposed to the same myths and stereotypes, so it is very
helpful to provide clarification. Each person's sexual orientation
is what's natural to that person. It's not a matter of "sexual
preference." People do not choose to be gay, lesbian, bisexual or
transgender; they simply are. Many gay and lesbian teenagers are
sure of their sexual orientation by the time they enter high school.
Others may be confused and unsure. Be supportive. Let gay and
lesbian teenagers know that they are "okay." Explain that many people
have struggled with the issue of sexual orientation. Acknowledge that
dealing with one's sexuality is difficult. Keep the door open for
further conversations and assistance. Know when and where to seek
help. Know the resources, referral agencies and counselors in your area.
Gay/Lesbian hotlines can provide information to professional persons and
agencies that are qualified to help as well as the students themselves.
Be informed. All of us are products of a society that is
heterosexist/homophobic. All of us carry this misinformation around with
us, and must actively work at challenging this bias. You cannot be free
of it by just deciding to be free; read reliable resources and talk to
qualified persons. Adapted from Alone No More,
Minnesota Department of Education, 1994 |
