Chapter 6: Advocacy From Adversity: Sculpting an LGBT Identity in Art Education

My journey to becoming an art educator began with a desire to teach and a passion for art. I repressed any questions I had about being gay in this profession until a number of experiences led me to find the answers. Bigotry and prejudice could have discouraged me if not for the support of my graduate program. With the freedom and encouragement to research issues I was interested in, I found the confidence to advocate for LGBT educators and students. I collaborated with professors and classmates to prepare preservice teachers to work with LGBT youth. I presented at conferences and to undergraduate courses of elementary education and art education majors. My research and experiences transformed me into a confident educator, prepared to make positive change.