These subtle acts can profoundly impact a student's sense of belonging.

Hey Advocates,

This week, I've either received emails or received news articles about discrimination against our LGBTQIA students during Pride Month. It sucks that there is so much hate all there. I shared some of my thoughts last night during my webinar. Here are a couple of episodes for you in support of our LGBTQ+ students:

• LE 297: The Ultimate Conversation Around LGBTQ+, Sex, Gender, and Sexuality with Dr. Jaime Hartless
• LE 262: Building Community for Queer People in STEM with Dr. Kelly Cross

Here are my thoughts this week 

It seems like every time I post something regarding our LGBTQ+ students, I get at least one email that essentially says, "They don't advocate for BIPOC students." Listen, I hear what you are saying and understand where you are coming from. However, please consider a couple of things.

1. BIPOC students are often part of the LGBTQ+ community
2. Many non-BIPOC LGBTQ+ students do advocate for their peers

I'm never one who entertains "who had it worse" conversations. That's not my fight. I believe in social justice for everyone.

This brings me to my next point, Selective Outrage - Outrage against a moment/incident aligned with your ideology.

When discussing a sense of belonging, addressing all aspects of diversity is essential. While some individuals may voice support for movements like Black Lives Matter and Stop AAPI Hate, they draw a line regarding normalizing LGBTQ identities.

Such attitudes highlight students' challenges in schools where educators fail to reinforce The Formula (acceptance, inclusivity, and support). Even if educators do not explicitly express their biases, they may unknowingly exhibit microaggressions towards students who look, speak, or come from different backgrounds. These subtle acts can profoundly impact a student's self-esteem, sense of belonging, and academic performance.

Inclusivity is not a buzzword but a fundamental aspect of education that must be prioritized. Building a supportive learning environment requires educators and administrators to proactively address their biases and prejudices within themselves and the educational system. 

Let us strive to build an education system that prepares students for a diverse and interconnected world, one where differences are embraced and a sense of belonging becomes the norm.

Content Created This Week

Those are my thoughts this week. Make sure you check out Monday's podcast episode next week.

Have a great weekend,

-Sheldon

Book Dr. Eakins

Check out what the LEC has to offer!

P.S. Would you take a moment to write a review of my book on Amazon?