IECA believes our members, students, parents, and those working in educational and therapeutic institutions should have equal access to human rights.

We know that efforts to limit LGBTQ+ identities or restrict LGBTQ+ people’s access to education or other essential services have detrimental academic, social, medical, and mental health impacts. We recognize the increased stress that many LGBTQ+ people face in their day-to-day lives at home, school, and work due to policies and laws that fall short of equal protection and that sanction discrimination.

Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access (IDEA) are vital to IECA’s success, and we will always promote a culture that celebrates and respects all forms of diversity. We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment for all. We invite our members to learn about the history of the LGBTQ+ community’s lack of rights and how standing up for itself through protest became Pride.

How We Will Do This

As part of this commitment, we pledge to listen to and provide support for our LGBTQ+ members, foster understanding and acceptance through educational initiatives, implement educational best practices for members working with LGBTQ+ students and families, establish platforms for open dialogue, and form alliances with LGBTQ+ organizations.

National and Community Organizations

To educate yourself or volunteer in your community, reach out to your local chapter of any of these organizations:

• Equality Federation Institute
• National Center for Transgender Equality
• The Trevor Project
• PFLAG
• GLSEN
• ACLU