The experiences of lesbian and queer female teachers in Canadian schools
Abstract
This study examines the work experiences of lesbian/ queer female teachers in Canada and how they manage their identities in face of homophobia and heteronormativity in school. I employ a case study involving semi-structured interviews with 4 participants in 3 Canadian provinces – Alberta, Manitoba, and Ontario. The chief finding of this research is that homophobia and heteronormativity prevalent in school not only prevents lesbian and queer female teachers from coming out to everyone in school but also limits their access to the resources and support at work. This study makes a contribution given that very little existing research focuses specially on the experiences of lesbian/ queer female teachers in Canadian schools. This research seeks to provide further insights into the impact of homophobia and heteronormativity in schools, particularly considering the current conditions of anti-LGBT rhetoric motivated by far-right extremism. Hopefully, this research can help people understand the extent to which homophobia and heteronormativity is impacting the lives of lesbian/ queer female teachers and the urgency to support them at work.