Government Ministers of Education and Schools Who Are LGBTQ

Schools are a fundamental institution to the development of a society. The education system underpins many cultural, legal, economic, and social policies and practices that define how our society operates. Educational institutions at all levels shape the course of our future.

Schools and educational institutions need to be as welcoming a place for LGBTQ youth as for any other individual or group. These youth need to feel comfortable and welcome. Peer programs need to be inclusive, equitable and non-discriminatory, and staff need to be trustful and accommodating to the different needs of youth. Every student should have the opportunity to succeed personally and academically, regardless of background, identity or personal circumstances. This environment is essential for improving student achievement and promoting student and staff well-being.

Students should not only experience diversity and equity but also see it reflected in their studies. Any vision for equity and inclusion should extend to the entire teaching community, including teachers, principals, and education workers.

The responsibility for much of this relies on the administration by the Ministry of Education or Schools. The ultimate direction of this is given by the government's Minister of Education and Schools. Having a Minister who identifies as LGBTQ is a tremendous advantage to constructing and operating an educational system that meets the needs of the LGBTQ community.

We have identified the following LGBTQ individuals who have acted as their government's Minister of Education or Schools:

Belgium