Scotland becomes first country to mandate LGBTQ curriculum in schools

Students in Scotland are about to get some new lessons about LGBTQ people and historical events. The country has become the first to mandate LGBTQ-centered curriculum be taught in schools.

Scotland’s Deputy First Minister John Swinney told parliament that the new education initiative will start immediately according to Gay Star News.

The UK outlet reports that schools will “teach themes like LGBTI terminology and identities, tackling homophobia, biphobia and transphobia, prejudice in relation to the LGBTI community and promoting awareness of the history of LGBTI equalities and movements.”

“Scotland is already considered one of the most progressive countries in Europe for LGBTI equality,” Deputy First Minister John Swinney said in a press statement. “I am delighted to announce we will be the first country in the world to have LGBTI inclusive education embedded within the curriculum.”

Related: All schools in Scotland will have gender neutral bathrooms soon

“Our education system must support everyone to reach their full potential. That is why it is vital the curriculum is as diverse as the young people who learn in our schools.”

The Scottish government launched an LGBTI Inclusive Education Working Group before making the decision. The group reported back with 33 recommendations and the government has said they will implement them all.

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