Unmasking Identities: An Exploration of the Lives of Gay and Lesbian Teachers

Based on a qualitative research study of gay and lesbian teachers, Unmasking Identities explores how gay and lesbian teachers bring together their identities in a climate where the two have historically been pitted against each other. Janna Marie Jackson demonstrates that participants made direct and indirect connections between their experiences related to being gay or lesbian and their classroom practices of promoting social justice and building on students’ understandings. This process of integrating their sexual identities with their roles as teachers was facilitated and inhibited by several factors including the community atmosphere, school culture, and family status. This unique book explores what happens when identities are oppressed and suppressed and the consequences when they finally break free. Unmasking Identities provides theoretical understandings and practical advice for teachers, administrators, and policy-makers who are concerned about gay and lesbian issues. This engaging text will appeal to those interested in gender studies and issues in education.