Non-binary teacher introduces 6th graders to the importance of pronouns

In a world with immense diversity, it's imperative to educate the younger generation about the LGBTQIAP+ community and foster inclusivity from an early age. Nairobi Colon, affectionately known as Teacher Robi among their students, is a shining example of how this can be achieved. At 28 years old, Colon—who goes on TikTok by @robigotsoles—shares their experiences as a sixth-grade art teacher while seamlessly integrating lessons on inclusivity and diversity alongside the standard curriculum.

Colon's dedication to inclusive teaching extends far beyond art. They create a safe and welcoming learning atmosphere where all students are acknowledged for their authentic selves. In a recent TikTok video, the teacher demonstrated how they educate their students on these crucial concepts while also promoting inclusivity, especially regarding their own identity. They began by introducing themselves to their class and explaining their pronouns: "My name is Teacher Robi. I am non-binary. I use they/them pronouns."

It wasn't just a statement; it was a lesson in the significance of pronouns, not just for themselves but for everyone in the class. They emphasized, "Pronouns are super important for me, for you. It's important that we get it right every single time," and reassured students that any accidental errors would be politely corrected while encouraging questions to foster understanding. Colon's introduction went beyond the disclosure of their gender identity.