Ensuring Safe Schools

Addressing Bias and Discrimination by Raising Awareness

NEA Human and Civil Rights' "Safe Zone" poster shows students that their schools are taking a stand against racism, sexism, classism, heterosexism, ableism, ageism, religious bias, and other forms of bias and discrimination.

In our classrooms, playgrounds, restrooms, offices, libraries, buses, and elsewhere, both students and school personnel can be proactive in raising awareness of those instances when differences are mocked, devalued, or simply silenced, and in challenging all forms of bullying and harassment. 

This requires courage and more "homework" to learn about bias and how to address it with students. Your state and local affiliate can provide resources and schedule diversity trainings.

We realize that some of these topics continue to generate discomfort, cautiousness, and disagreement, namely, homophobia concerning gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered students. NEA and its affiliates provide trainings, resource handbooks, and other forms of support for creating safe environments for all students.

For more information, contact your state affiliate Human and Civil Rights coordinator or Robert Kim at 202-822-7439.