This book illustrates the relationship between politics and the way in which lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) issues are taught in schools. A case study comparison of California and Utah provides an in-depth view of the politically and culturally different landscapes that shape LGBT climates and curriculum in schools. The book explores how recent rulings on the definition of marriage, Proposition 8 and The Defense of Marriage Act influence LGBTQ youth and issues in public schools, and how are schools responding to generational shifts in ideology.

1. Democracy, Inclusion, and Curriculum 2. Democratic Education and Queer Theory in Public Schools 3. LGBTQ Issues and Utah Schools 4. LGBTQ Issues and California Schools 5. Social Justice and LGBTQ Issues in Schools 6. Prologue

Steven P. Camicia is Associate Professor of Teacher Education and Leadership at Utah State University, USA.