Exploring LGBTQ plus pedagogy in Japanese university classrooms

Although ostensibly a free and open society, Japan is often seen to be lagging behind in terms of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other (LGBTQ+) rights and understanding of LGBTQ+ issues. This lack of understanding leads to a high degree of invisibility for LGBTQ+ members and a lack of inclusivity in educational curriculums. In this article, the authors document their explorations of introducing both explicit and implicit LGBTQ+ content into university English classes in Japan and their efforts to create a safe and inclusive classroom environment. After reporting on students' reactions and feelings towards these activities, we recommend a varied approach to LGBTQ+ topics in the classroom that we hope will be of use to teachers not only in Japan, but around the world too.