Family Pride releases back-to-school aid

WASHINGTON – Family Pride has announced the launch of a Back to School pamphlet, titled, "Building Family Equality in Every Classroom." The materials give concrete, easy to execute strategies to educate school communities about the unique needs of children of LGBT parents in the classroom.
"This time of year, most parents are making out 'Back to School' lists: pens and pencils, backpacks and lunch boxes, jeans and sneakers," said Jennifer Chrisler, executive director of Family Pride. "It's just as important to add Family Pride's resources to that list. Introduce your family, check for anti-harassment and anti-bullying policies, insure that school forms and curricula are inclusive of all types of families. Family Pride encourages LGBT parents to consider your child's needs, to know your rights, and to reach out to the school community."
The tool provides checklists of concrete methods for parents to be proactive in their dealings with the school community. It provides strategies for talking to teacher and principals, formulating questions about inclusivity and language, and working with others to enact positive change.
"If our schools had asbestos, we'd stand up, if our playgrounds were unsafe, we'd stand up. Children are facing anti-LGBT hostility and we need to stand up," said Chrisler.
Working successfully with a school community isn't always about lofty projects "It's often the little things that make the most difference," said Trina Olson, Family Pride's program and education manager. "For example, we suggest you speak with your child's teacher about the language your family uses. 'I'm Mom and Jill is "Momma.'" This kind of basic information gives your child's teacher the framework he or she needs to talk about your family. By giving these specifics, you have given the teacher the tools to be comfortable talking about and advocating for your family," continued Olson.
To obtain a copy of "Building Family Equality in Every Classroom," go to www.familypride.org or call (202) 331-5015.
Family Pride is a national non-profit organization dedicated to securing equality for LGBT parents and their families.