Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Thesis Format

Integrated Article

Degree

Master of Arts

Program

Education

Supervisor

Martino, Wayne

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.

Summary for Lay Audience

This study aims to understand how the discrimination towards lesbian and queer female women and societal pressures surrounding heterosexual marriage on their career advancement. Four lesbian/queer female teachers in three Canadian provinces – Alberta, Manitoba, and Ontario – were invited to talk about their experiences and why they hesitate talking about their personal lives at work. The analysis found that lesbian/queer female women are still having to encounter significant workplace discrimination based on their sexuality and sometimes feel the need to hide their sexuality to keep their jobs. This research is one of the few studies that focuses on the work experiences of lesbian and queer female teachers in Canada. It is of great importance given the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community amid the rise of far-right movements. This research is conducted in the hope of encouraging more attention to the work experiences of lesbian and queer female teachers and how schools can support them so that they can feel safe and valued.

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