Because making everyone feel included, welcome and safe matters…
- RESPECT PRONOUNS
Use everyone’s preferred pronouns and names. Sometimes, these can change over time but if you’re ever unsure, it’s okay to ask someone what their preferred pronouns are in a respectful and polite manner.
- LANGUAGE CHECK
Use respectful language at all times and politely but firmly correct others who use derogatory or outdated terms and phrases. We all have the power to be allies to the LGBTQ+ community by calling out prejudice when we see it.
- LET YOUR VALUES SHINE THROUGH
Be your own true self and take time to get to know and learn all that you can about your fellow classmates or students. When we listen, we learn. We learn more about our world and the spectrum of people who live in it, giving us a better understanding of the struggles or issues others may be facing.
- CHALLENGE STEREOTYPES
We all come across stereotypes and unconscious bias in our day-to-day lives. Whether it’s a tired stereotype such as ‘pink for girls/blue for boys’ or an outdated opinion on transgender individuals, we should all play our part in speaking out against harmful stereotypes. Gently correct and explain in a calm, clear manner why these old-fashioned labels and ‘pigeon-holes’ can exclude and upset others.
- GET EDUCATED
We all want to avoid hurting, misgendering or excluding those around us but in an ever-changing landscape, knowing the correct and most up-to-date terms can seem like a minefield. Reading articles, exploring LGBTQ+ websites such as www.stonewall.org.uk and talking to individuals within the LGBTQ+ community can help. Again, if you’re not sure of the correct term to use, it’s perfectly fine to ask in a respectful manner which words or terms an individual or community are comfortable with.
- CELEBRATE OTHER CULTURES
The great thing about an inclusive classroom or group of people is the diversity of culture and background. Whether it’s wishing a classmate of Muslim faith a joyful Eid or joining a friend in a Pride march, it’s easy (and fun!) to show your support and love for cultures other than your own.
- BE AN ALLY TO THE OPPRESSED
If you’re aware of an individual who is being excluded, picked on or treated in a negative way because of their faith, skin colour, sexuality or sex, speak up. Offer them your support and do what you can to help them put a stop to this – you could offer to go with them to report it to a teacher, for example.
- SEEK OUT MULTICULTURAL INFLUENCES
Broaden your horizons and learn more about the many cultures across our world! Visit museums, watch subtitled foreign films and read books with diverse themes to become more inclusive, responsible and aware of the wonderful diversity around us.
- BE A SAFE SPACE
Become a person who offers a safe, non-judgemental space for others. Make it known that you are available if someone wants to talk and that you will be an ally for those who are facing prejudices.
- TREAT OTHERS HOW YOU WANT TO BE TREATED
It really is as simple as that. Give out the energy, love and respect you wish to receive yourself. Remember, it costs us nothing to be kind. ❤️
