ATAGSA finding its way

Nearing the end of its first year in existence, the Alberta Teachers’ Association’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance (ATAGSA) is continuing to focus on inclusion and advocacy while providing a safe space for teaching staff across the province to be seen and heard. 

The ATAGSA holds virtual monthly meetings with local teacher GSAs taking turns hosting. At the beginning of each meeting, attendees complete a safe space agreement that includes confidentiality, giving grace to each other and ensuring the meeting is a caring environment. Attending members are encouraged to share their stories, resources, supports and to build connections and community.

“The ATAGSA is a place of compassion, knowledge and authenticity. When teachers feel safe to be authentic, they are able to build stronger relationships and be the best educators they can be,” said ATAGSA chair Rin Lawrence.

The meetings are for ATA members only. Many attendees are 2SLGBTQIA+ teachers.

Dealing with discrimination, harassment and gender-based violence affects the mental health and safety of 2SLGBTQIA+ teaching staff, Lawrence said. As ATAGSA members’ voices identify issues and needs, the ATAGSA seeks options and resolutions. 

Teachers joining the ATAGSA learn how to be effective advocates and ways to support students, staff and families. In the past year, the ATAGSA has helped locals create their own teacher GSAs and assisted members with issues related to the Alberta Teacher and Teacher Leader Registry. Additionally, the ATAGSA has collaborated with the ATA’s Teacher Employment Services program area to promote understanding of human rights law and legal concerns around contracts and discriminatory practices. 

Overall, advocating for an inclusive Alberta is an important piece of the ATAGSA’s mission. 

“We fundamentally believe in the power of education and will continue to dispel the myths and misinformation associated with 2SLGBTQIA+ identities,” Lawrence said.

The ATAGSA is a subgroup of the ATA’s provincial Diversity, Equity and Human Rights Committee. Lawrence said that allies are an important part of the group’s membership.

“Instead of thinking of ally as a title, think of ally as a verb. Instead of being an ally, do allyship. Use inclusive language, correct names and pronouns, and help others do the same.” Lawrence said.

Lawrence encourages everyone to make an effort to be an ally even if those who are afraid of making a mistake.

“We are all human and make mistakes every day, but if we are too afraid to get it wrong that we never try, we will never get better at doing allyship,” Lawrence said. “We would rather you messed up, and learned from it, than if you never showed up at all.” ❚

To get involved

Please contact atagsa@ata.ab.ca to be added to the email list, receive updates and access the virtual meeting.