fYrefly in Schools is an iSMSS educational initiative developed to help reduce discrimination against sexual and gender minority youth, increase awareness of the impacts of homo/bi/transphobia, and equip students with the tools they need to become effective allies for diversity, equity, and human rights within their schools and communities.
fYrefly in Schools is a new educational initiative developed to help reduce discrimination against sexual and gender minority youth, increase awareness of the impacts of homophobia and transphobia, and create safe and inclusive school environments for all students. The program is free and reflects the focus on safety stated in Section 45 of the provincial School Act. This requires all students in Alberta’s schools to be provided with a safe and caring environment where they do not experience discrimination based on personal characteristics including sexual orientation and gender identity. fYrefly in Schools is delivered to schools on a request basis, as resources of the Institute for Sexual Minority Studies and Services permit. Designed for junior and senior high school students, fYrefly in Schools workshops are student- centred and activity-based to focus on personal and social development and comprehensive health. Workshops follow the peer-to-peer mentorship model of
iSMSS celebrates the vibrant diversity of our campuses by recognizing and supporting
important and collective efforts in creating welcoming, inclusive, safe, and respectful environments for sexual and gender minority students, faculty, staff, and allies.
Sexual and gender minorities represents an evolving constellation of identities including, but not limited to, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans*,asexual, two-spirit, intersex, questioning, and queer.