Difficulty with Expression of Identity 

Schools can support students who are finding it difficult to express their identity or be themselves by creating a safe and inclusive environment. This can be done by: 

• Educating staff and students about different forms of diversity, including cultural and social identities, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and ability. This can be done through professional development, workshops, and guest speakers. 

• Establishing policies and procedures to prevent discrimination and bias-based bullying. This can include a zero-tolerance policy for hate speech, and regular training on how to recognize and address discrimination. 

• Providing support services, such as counseling, for students who may be struggling with their identity. This can include individual, group, or family counseling, as well as support groups for specific identities or experiences, such as immigrant students or students of color. 

• Encouraging student-led initiatives and clubs that focus on different cultures, identities, and experiences. This can include student government, cultural clubs, or affinity groups for specific identities. 

• Creating a curriculum that is inclusive and reflects the diversity of the student population, and making sure that all students see themselves represented and valued in the classroom. 

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Organisations that can be referred to include: 

 

New Zealand: 

• Rainbow Youth - a youth-led organisation that provides support and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ young people in New Zealand 

• Cultural Diversity NZ - an organisation that provides resources and support for multicultural education and cross-cultural communication in New Zealand 

 

Australia: 

• Diversity Council Australia - an organisation that provides resources and support for creating inclusive workplaces and communities in Australia 

• The Australian Centre for Cultural Environmental Research (AUSCCER) - an organisation that conducts research and provides resources on the intersections of culture, environment and sustainability in Australia 

 

UK: 

• Stonewall - an organisation that works to achieve equality and acceptance for LGBTQ+ people in the UK 

• Race Equality Foundation - an organisation that provides resources and support for promoting racial equality in the UK 

• Show Racism the Red Card - an organisation that provides resources and support for challenging racism in the UK 

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