Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/686175
CALENDAR Get your students ready for LGBT Pride Month in June — and year-round — by talking about the impact that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning indi- viduals and communities have had on history and culture locally, nationally and around the world. Include positive representations of LGBTQ+ themes and history in your curriculum — it will help LGBTQ+ students feel safer and more affirmed, and all students will benefit when you're a visible ally and build empathy and understanding. The Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (glsen.org) and the Anti-Defamation League (adl.org), among others, offer ideas, resources and sample curric- ulum by grade level for educators. The American Library Association's Rainbow list has books, poetry and writings of LGBTQ+ writers (glbtrt.ala.org/rainbowbooks). Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month There's still time to observe Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month, which runs through May. Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders represent more than 50 ethnic groups and 100 languages. They have made enormous contributions to the civic, cultural and economic fabric of our nation. Lesson plans and audiovisual features are available at cta.org/mayawareness; for more resources, see nea.org and search for Asians/Pacific Islanders. Harness the Power of Diversity Join NEA's 2016 Joint Conference on Concerns of Minorities and Women June 30-July 1 in Washington, D.C. Unite to fight social injustice. Inspire fellow rabble-rousers to action. Lead the movement to ensure opportunity for all students. The plenary and workshop sessions will help you create better learning opportunities for your students no matter their race, gender, ZIP code, sexual orientation, first language or immigration status. Sign up at nea.org/jointconference. 8 cta.org