Queering student perspectives: gender, sexuality and activism in school

Abstract

This paper examines the work of a gay-straight alliance and the ways in which members use elements of queer theory to understand their own and others' identities, both to make sense of their experiences and to support their activist efforts. The analysis identifies queer perspectives on gender and sexual identity as useful tools for supporting student activism. It also illustrates the complexity of this process within the school context, the challenges associated with student-led school change, and the forces, both institutional and cultural, that can hamper this potential.