Schools to fly flag for inclusivity

SCHOOLS and sporting groups are bringing in unisex bathrooms, non-gendered playing teams and flying rainbow flags in a bid to be more inclusive.

Restrictions on terms such as “mum”, “dad”, “boyfriend” and “girlfriend” are also part of a push to curb the dropout and suicide rates of LGBTIQ+ young people.

The North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network has launched the #Speaking Up Speaks Volumes campaign to support LGBTIQ+ students in schools.

The network’s CEO Chris Carter said the campaign “encouraged people to speak up and actively support LGBTIQ+ kids”.

“When someone is experiencing bullying, silence often feels like indifference, which can create a terrible sense of isolation,” he said.

“The simple act of openly showing support can be a catalyst for great change for the better and it’s often the less obvious moments that can be the most impactful to someone’s wellbeing.”

The campaign draws on material from Proud2Play and VicHealth which includes strategies for schools and sporting groups such as rainbow flag signage, unisex and gender-neutral change rooms and toilets, non-gendered formats for teams, and allowing people to play according to gender identity.

The material also suggests avoiding “gendered terms” such as husband and girlfriend instead of the non-gendered partner, and mum and dad rather than parent. People are also encouraged to ask others which pronouns they use.

Merrin, the mother of Jax, 12, who was “gender not-sure” in his early years before affirming his gender as a boy, said the support of the school was crucial to her son’s growth. “There needs to always be obvious support and prevention so kids like Jax don’t have their confidence derailed,” she said.