Homophobic State of Mind: Queering School Climates in Texas

• In Event: 33.079 - Roundtable Session 12
  In Roundtable Session: 33.079-7 - Variables That Influence School Climate: Collective Trust, Inclusivity, and Critical Leadership

Abstract

There is a strong grip on Texas state government that has positioned conservative politicians and their religious backers to shape the public school system, which is increasingly oppressive toward LGBTIQ students. The existence of hostile school climates illustrates that change is needed which can lead students to think about what is considered "normal" within our values and culture and its negative consequences on marginalized groups, such as LGBTIQ students. It is through the experiences of nine LGBTIQ students that we examine the issues LGBTIQ students face and the possibilities that exist to create an inclusive school climate for all students in Texas, as well as across the South.

Authors

• Michael Andrew Thorson, Conroe Independent School District

• Patrick Slattery, Texas A&M University

• Joseph Baker, Texas A&M University