Citation

Magić J, Maljevac S. J. LGBT Youth 2016; 13(1-2): 28-45.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2016, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/19361653.2015.1087931

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Research has highlighted that during school, European lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth experience significantly higher levels of discrimination and verbal, physical, and sexual violence in comparison with their heterosexual peers. Slovenian youth are not exempt from this experience. While the educational system is exclusively heteronormative, change on the ground is obstructed by the reluctance of decision makers to acknowledge homophobia in schools and introduce mechanisms safeguarding LGBT students. In response to this challenge, Information Centre Legebitra, a Slovenian LGBT rights and advocacy organization, has addressed school homophobia through evidence-based practice. We used a reflective narrative to explore the factors that have generated, supported, and challenged the emergence and development of LGBT advocates in the Slovenian educational system. In particular, we reflected on the role of research on increasing the effect of Legebitra's work and the credibility of organizational advocacy message with external partners, funders, supporters, and membership. We also analyzed our experience within the larger context of nongovernmental organizations and social movements, which use research to advance their cause.

Language: en