Working with Immigrant and Refugee Students While Queer | Ep. 192 (with Alejandro Aristizabal)

Live from the Creating Change Conference in Washington, D.C., Bryan sits down with Alejandro, a youth program assistant with Foundation Communities in Austin, Texas. Together, they explore what it means to be an openly gay educator working with immigrant and refugee youth in a state where policy often conflicts with inclusion.Alejandro shares his path from reluctant teacher to joyful mentor, how his queerness shows up in small but powerful ways, and why community and creativity sustain him—even when the world feels unsafe.Listeners will learn:How Foundation Communities fosters safety and belonging for diverse youthWhat “small acts of queerness” look like in everyday educationHow to navigate fear of being out in conservative regionsThe difference between tolerance and true affirmation at workWhy queer joy, art, and faith can all coexistIf this conversation resonates with you, follow Teaching While Queer wherever you listen—your review helps more educators find the care and courage they need.Support the showQueering Education is a Teaching While Queer podcast centering LGBTQ+ educators and the real-world realities of teaching while queer. We explore queer representation in education, including burnout, tokenism, doxing, visibility, boundaries, and advocacy for inclusive classrooms, safe schools, and anti-bullying practices.This podcast supports gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, asexual, aromantic, agender, and two-spirit teachers, and addresses how gender identity in schools can be honored to reduce isolation, protect educators, and build community.Support the podcast and spread the message with merch from Equalitees.Me.Follow Teaching While Queer on Instagram and Facebook. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen.Keywords: Teaching While Queer, queer educators, LGBTQ teachers, inclusive education, gender identity in schools, safe classrooms, anti-bullying strategies, educator burnout, LGBTQ advocacy, queer visibility in education