Supporting trans, Two-Spirit, and gender creative students starting school this fall

Supporting trans, Two-Spirit, and gender creative students starting school this fall

August 30, 2024
Two people meeting at a desk with one person writing something down

Supporting trans, Two-Spirit, and gender creative students starting school this fall

With school starting this week, we’re calling on educators, family members, and allies to foster school environments that are affirming, supportive, and safe for trans, Two-Spirit, and gender creative students.

Starting or returning to school can be profoundly stressful for students of all ages who are bullied, harassed, and discriminated against based on their gender identities and expressions. Increasing visibility of trans people has coincided with increasing political discourse and legislation that targets and harms, trans, Two-Spirit, and gender creative youth. It is critical for educators, families, and allies to show their support—we know that trans and non-binary youth who have gender-affirming school and home environments have significantly better mental health outcomes [i].

We’ve put together a list of resources below with more information on how we can come together to support gender-diverse students who are starting or returning to school in September.

Resources

We are Allies is a national campaign that was created to help adults learn how to support and care for trans, Two-Spirit, and non-binary youth in their lives. Visit this website for storytelling and resources to guide and strengthen your allyship of young people.

Gender education

If gender diversity is a newer topic for you, start by checking out Trans Care BC’s website and free online courses. If you’re already familiar with the topic, think about using professional development days to expand or brush up on your knowledge.

Information for parents on working with schools

Information for school staff

One way staff can show support is by displaying and sharing information: 

Trans rights & organizing

Promote trans rights, organizing, and community building in schools:

Community support

Know where to find gender affirming peer support for youth throughout BC.

Support for youth:

Support for families of trans youth:

[i] Taylor, A.B., Chan, A., Hall, S.L., Saewyc, E. M., & the Canadian Trans & Non-binary Youth Health Survey Research Group (2020). Being Safe, Being Me, 2020