Experiences of Psycho-Emotional Health and Well-Being Among Queer Educator Activists

• In Event: Fairmont Roundtable Session Nine
  In Roundtable Session: The Sociality of Emotions and Well-Being Among Youth and Educator Activists (Table 4)

Abstract

The homo- and transphobic policies and practices of schools - combined with the hetero- and cisnormative codes of conduct in the profession of teaching - negatively impact the health and well-being of Queer educators. This study explored the role of activism in the affective lives of two Queer K-12 educators in the Pacific Northwest involved in LGBTQ+ youth groups. Using a Queer Life Narrative Model, participants journaled, interviewed, and emailed over a 4-month period. This study found that participants utilized Queer cultural assets to cope with homophobia at work, and felt that future opportunities to be in community with other Queer educators would be a boon to their ability to sustain individual and collective healing and transformation beyond the study.

Author

• Chrissy Constant, Lewis & Clark College
  Presenting Author