Creating an Effective SOGI Policy

Robust policies and procedures clarify the rights and responsibilities of all school community members. Creating a SOGI policy is an important task and investing the time to ensure that it is done well in the beginning will save time and minimize challenges later. SOGI policies will also continue to evolve over time. The most important thing is that we all keep moving forward together.

Here some key factors that can contribute to an effective SOGI policy.

Stakeholders

Involve students, educators, parents, board or trustees, community groups, Elders, and/or cultural leaders. Seek out, listen to, and encourage quieter voices and perspectives from more marginalized school community members. Engage both students and adults who represent diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.

Language

Name SOGI specifically. Stating how students and staff will be protected from discrimination based on their sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) or expression is more effective than broad anti-bullying or inclusivity statements.

Intersectionality

Reflect student and community diversity. In addition to naming SOGI specifically, marginalized identities may need explicit references in order to ensure that equity for all students remains an ongoing priority. Learn more about intersectionality here.

Consistency

Ensure that all policies or procedures, not just “The SOGI Policy,” are consistent with SOGI-inclusive education efforts. For example, does another procedure say that an adult of “the same gender” must accompany students on overnight trips, with no consideration for non-binary students?

Depth

If possible, include all 10 recommended components of a SOGI policy as explored here.

Commitment

Make statements about what will happen rather than what will be attempted. Assert what you will do and how you will do it. Be willing to include ambitious targets.