Description

Origins and Indigeneity is a cornerstone lesson in the LGBTQ Studies unit, guiding students to critically examine the idea that LGBTQ identities are “modern” by investigating how queer desire and non-binary gender expression have existed across cultures since time immemorial. Grounded in Ethnic Studies and historical inquiry, this lesson challenges Eurocentric narratives and centers Indigenous and global perspectives.

Designed for grades 9–12, this lesson unfolds across three 75-minute class periods, allowing students time to engage deeply with discussion, media analysis, and collaborative research. Students explore the concept of historical relativity, learning that language, identity categories, and cultural meanings shift across time and place—particularly under colonial influence.

Through guided video analysis, critical questioning, and structured inquiry, students examine why LGBTQ histories are often erased, misrepresented, or difficult to trace. They analyze how power, safety, access to resources, and colonial systems shape whose stories are preserved. Students then conduct group research on Indigenous and historical expressions of queer desire and gender identity across different regions of the world, culminating in small-group presentations and reflective discussion.

This lesson provides strong scaffolding for complex topics such as Indigeneity, Two Spirit identities, media bias, and historical erasure, while encouraging students to question dominant historical narratives and build research skills.

What’s Included

• Multi-day slide-based lesson with detailed educator guidance

• Media analysis and critical discussion prompts

• Student inquiry framework and presentation templates

• Curated research resources on global and Indigenous queer histories

• Summative group presentation and reflection activities

• Alignment with WAESN Elements of Liberation, Washington State Social Studies Standards, and ELA Standards

Why Educators Use This Lesson

• Challenges the myth that LGBTQ identities are new or Western

• Centers Indigenous and global perspectives on gender and sexuality

• Builds critical inquiry, research, and presentation skills

• Supports nuanced discussion of colonialism and historical erasure

• Provides a rigorous, student-centered learning experience

This lesson is ideal for educators seeking high school LGBTQ Studies curriculum that is academically rigorous, historically grounded, and designed to help students understand identity across time, culture, and power.