SEXUALITY & GENDER DIVERSITY EDUCATION
We live in an age where same sex marriage is accepted, the Human Rights Act 1993 legislates against discrimination on sexuality and gender identity grounds and we are starting to see representation of LGBT+ in mainstream media. This is progress, however research shows that NZ youth who are sexuality and/or gender identity diverse are still over represented in negative health and well being statistics (Clark et al., 2014).
Lack of knowledge, understanding and empathy for others contribute to the issues that minority groups face. As health educators we have the opportunity to positively influence societal attitudes through exploration of issues related to sexual orientation and gender identity. We have a responsibility to ensure school environments are safe and inclusive and support the development and expression of all sexuality and gender identities. Sexuality education in New Zealand schools supports and acknowledges diversity among students. Schools should work to question gender stereotypes, and assumptions about sexuality. School programmes and the wider school environment should take opportunities to acknowledge the sexual diversity of New Zealand communities and recognise the rights of those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and other sexual and gender identities. Diverse views of sexuality also need to be supported. The New Zealand Curriculum is underpinned by values of diversity, equity, and respect and recognises human rights. These values ensure the rights of all students to self expression, identifi cation, and support. Sexuality education is based on these values (Ministry of Education, 2015). |
Clark, T. C., Lucassen, M. F. G., Bullen, P., Denny, S. J., Fleming, T. M., Robinson, E. M., & Rossen, F. V. (2014). The health and well-being of transgender high school students: Results from the New Zealand Adolescent Health Survey (Youth’12). Journal of Adolescent Health, 55, 93-99.
Ministry of Education. (2015). Sexuality education: a guide for principals, boards of trustees, and teachers. Wellington, New Zealand: Ministry of Education
Ministry of Education. (2015). Sexuality education: a guide for principals, boards of trustees, and teachers. Wellington, New Zealand: Ministry of Education