Confronting StereotypesConfronting Stereotypes

"That's so gay!" is a put down sadly still heard in the hallways of many schools. Words have power and can be used to hurt people or make them feel good about themselves. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) young people know this all too well. If you let them, stereotypes can hold you back from being the full individual that you are. This book explores common LGBT stereotypes that persist both outside and inside the community. Explore where they come from and what they mean to you. Learn how you can do your part to reduce hurtful name-calling and appreciate LGBT people in all their diversity. Find out about resources that can help and how young people are taking action against stereotypes in their schools and communities. Each title in this series contains a foreword from the founder of the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN), color photos throughout, and back matter including: an index and further reading lists for books and internet resources. Key Icons appear throughout the books in this series in an effort to encourage library readers to build knowledge, gain awareness, explore possibilities and expand their viewpoints through our content rich non-fiction books. Key Icons in this series are as follows: Words to Understand are shown at the front of each chapter with definitions. These words are set in boldfaced type in that chapter, so that readers are able to reference back to the definitions--building their vocabulary and enhancing their reading comprehension. Sidebars are highlighted graphics with content rich material within that allows readers to build knowledge and broaden their perspectives by weaving together additional information to provide realistic and holistic perspectives. Text-Dependent Questions are placed at the end of each chapter. They challenge the reader's comprehension of the chapter they have just read, while sending the reader back to the text for more careful attention to the evidence presented there. Research Projects are provided at the end of each chapter as well and provide readers with suggestions for projects that encourage deeper research and analysis. And a Series Glossary of Key Terms is included in the back matter containing terminology used throughout the series. Words found here broaden the reader's knowledge and understanding of terms used in this field.