Breaking Ground in Gender-Neutral Language within the Classroom

Teaching While Queer, Season 2, Episode 29
Grab your headphones and get ready for an enlightening conversation that takes us into the heart of what it means to be a queer educator today. Our guest, Nicky Meindl (they/them), isn't just any teacher; they're a non-binary trans and queer special education trailblazer who opens up about the colorful tapestry of their life and the courage required to navigate identity in a not-always-accepting world. From the freewheeling days of band camp to the stricter corridors of academia, Nicky's story is a vivid illustration of resilience that challenges norms and champions authenticity.

Language is a living, breathing entity that reflects the ever-changing society we inhabit. In this episode, we tackle the complexities and joys of incorporating gender-neutral pronouns in the classroom, with Nicky providing insight into the delicate balance of fostering respect in a space still riddled with resistance. Revel in the adaptability of language—particularly Spanish—as we discuss its evolution to be more inclusive, even when faced with generational pushback. Hear Nicky's personal experiences with anti-queer sentiment, and how they navigate these waters with the grace and wisdom that only a dedicated educator can embody.

We conclude our journey by casting a hopeful gaze towards the horizon of LGBTQ+ advocacy and education. I reveal the struggles of being the singular queer teacher at my school, the energy it takes to carve out supportive networks, and the plans afoot to unite queer educators come 2024. Nicky and I reflect on the importance of correct pronoun use, the power of leading by example, and the shared dream of a future where all students and educators can thrive, celebrated for the full spectrum of who they are. This is more than just an episode; it's a beacon for what inclusive education can, and should, look like.

To be a guest or to hear more episodes visit www.teachingwhilequeer.com.

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You can find host, Bryan Stanton, on Instagram.

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