Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to conduct a literature review of an important topic related to social justice in higher education. I chose inclusion of LGBTQ students in higher education; through this topic I examined the policies, practices, and resources that shape the climate for LGBTQ safety and inclusion at several universities in the U.S. higher education system. In this analysis, I also examined how factors such as religious affiliation influence and impact LGBTQ inclusion on higher education campuses. Through this literature review, I presented the argument that LGBTQ inclusion should be a priority in every higher education institution, regardless of its affiliation.

To design and develop this paper, I began by gathering academic articles, journals, and websites to explore the topic of LGBTQ inclusion in higher education. I kept track of each article I read by recording and organizing my notes in Google Docs. In this way, I was able to familiarize myself with different viewpoints on the practices, policies, and curricular structures associated with LGBTQ issues. I encountered faith-based arguments both for and against LGBTQ inclusion. Other viewpoints suggested a need for LGBTQ anti-discrimination policies, but less of a need for LGBTQ inclusive curricular resources and practices.

Some of the literature argued that best practices for LGBTQ inclusion – such as gender inclusive housing, the Safe Zone Model, and LGTBQ inclusive health resources – are fundamental in creating environments that promote LGBTQ students’ success. Encountering various perspectives in the literature allowed me to analyze the current organizational and curricular structures in higher education that do and do not promote LGBTQ inclusion.  After encountering these perspectives, I formulated an argument for LGBTQ safety and inclusion in higher education that referenced concrete examples found in academic literature.