Stephen J. Thornton is active in the social studies profession. He is the current director of the Department of Secondary Education and the University of South Florida. Thornton chaired both the American Educational Research Association Special Interest Group on Social Studies Education Research and the National Council for the Social Studies Assembly of College and University Faculty. In his 2009 article, Silence on Gays and Lesbians is Social Studies Curriculum, Thornton highlights the exclusion of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender perspectives in social studies curricula in the United States. Thornton (2009) argues that this exclusion is the result of heteronormativity, homophobia and a general lack of resources. Analytical Reading Thornton's purpose in this article is to call attention to the continued exclusion of GLBT perspectives in social studies curricula. Thornton (2009) observes that overall, the social studies curriculum in the United States has become more multicultural in that it includes a range of groups and perspectives. Even though contemporary curriculum has moved away from equating "American" to a white male-centered Protestant tradition, Thornton argues that it is still not representative of all Americans, primarily because it " assumes everyone is heterosexual until proven otherwise” (Thornton, 2009, p.362). This belief that humans are heterosexual by default is called heteronormativity. Thornton believes that heteronormativity undermines inclusion in school curricula and encourages stereotyping because it encourages an “us-them” attitude (Thornton, 2009, p. 362). Heternormativity depicts a view of American life that is inaccurate because it marginalizes GLBT lifestyles. This perpetuates intolerance... middle of article... people will learn about LGBT issues “through a popular [and] prejudiced lens” (Thornton, 2009, p. 367). Conclusion Through the silence about gays and lesbians in the social studies curriculum, Thornton (2009) addresses the lack of LGBT issues in the social studies curriculum. By continuing the status quo of the current social studies curriculum, Thornton believes that educators are affirming heteronormativity and homophobia through the hidden curriculum. By integrating GLBT issues into the curriculum, social studies will be truly inclusive, reflecting the contribution and existence of all parts of society. By highlighting the accomplishments of GLBT students, teachers empower GLBT students as they gain an understanding of GLBT contributions and Straits students acquire and understand that all human beings have common needs and characteristics” (Thornton , 2009, pp...362).