"[We need a] Mandatory LGBTQIA+/MVPFAFF competency. Marked by leaders of our community."
"I felt transphobia growing up – but I didn’t know the term. Having a policy or even definitions up in a classroom will create talk."
"Kids go to school and give up their identity to learn English to get credits."
Are these important to you?
- All areas described as important but some need more specificity and more connection back to specific groups such as LGBTQIA+
- Attendees acknowledge there is discrimination towards LGBTQIA+ community, highlighting that calling out discrimination includes homophobia, transphobia, misogyny etc.
- Other issues raised: learners don’t get literacy credits for learning Samoan in school. This learning needs to be recognised. If we want to see a thriving Pasifika community then kids should be able to speak their language in schools
- Note: LGBTQIA+ = MVPFAFF (Pacific LGBTQIA+)
Is there something missing? What would you change about the areas?
- Ensuring non-Pacific teachers are skilled and competent at working with diverse learners
- Most commonly shared action: Need these skills embedded in teacher training and ongoing professional development, compulsory PD
- There should be a test during training to ensure teacher trainees have an open mind
- Schools aren’t aware of the special funds from LGBTQIA+ support services and support for LGBTQIA+ from schools can feel more like a tick box exercise rather than genuinely caring and helpful
- Any resources given to schools should be backed up with accountability for whether or not they’re being used to help students
- The impact of poor mental health on learning
- More consultation
- Instead of “change” the education system’s definition of success, use the term “re-establish”
- Take an intersectional approach – gender, sexuality, body, socio-economic status, ethnicity
- Utilise Communities of Learning networks to strengthen inclusive environments
- Differentiate between NZ born and Island born
Questions
- How are educators being held accountable for racist attitudes?
- Where are policies and frameworks that support the stance of abolishing racial discrimination?
- Where is MoE in this conversation?
- All other questions ask how the proposed shifts will be achieved
Most common indicators of success (in order)
- Pacific LGBTQIA+ learners can access resources and support they need
- There are no financial barriers to accessing education for Pacific learners and families
- Pacific learners have the skills to succeed in the workforce
- Pacific learners are accepted, understood, safe and valued for who they are
- Pacific learners with disabilities can participate and are included in the entire education system and extra-curricular activities
Auckland LGBTQIA+/MVPFAFF Fono Summary [PDF]