RI Laws and The Importance of Pronouns

 Woke Read : They, He, She Easy as ABC

Argument Statement

Kids should be taught to respect peoples names and pronouns.  Kids should also appreciate people and other kids for who they are.

Three Talking Points

1. The book, They, He, She Easy as ABC was culturally responsive and reflected a diverse population of kids. Students/kids can see themselves reflected in the text.

2. Text focuses on teaching about pronouns but it also celebrates differences.  The big message is that even though kids or people may have different pronouns, they still have similar interests and commonalities between one another. 

3. Affirmation: Identifying what feels right helps people know who they are.  Give a sense of belonging. 

Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

Guidance for Rhode Island Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students

June 2016

Argument Statement

The Rhode Island Department of Education are committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment to all Rhode Island students.  These laws support and advocate for the safety and well-being of children.  These laws provide a legal framework to guide school policies and practices related to discrimination based on sex, gender identity and gender expression. (page 1)

Three Talking Points

1. May 2001: RI was the second state in the country to explicitly prohibit discrimination on the basis of gender identity or expression. 

2. There are many different laws to protect kids in school.  They include laws on discriminatory practices, access to education records and the safe school act.

3. There are many terms, concepts, and developmental understandings of gender identity, gender expression, and gender diversity.  Educators and administrators need to familiarize themselves with the terms and the policy's that are at the district and state level which serve as a means to prevent discrimination.