Stephen J. Thornton is active in the social studies profession. He is the current chair of the Department of Secondary Education and the University of South Florida. Thornton chaired both the American Educational Research Association's Special Interest Group on research in social studies education and the College and University Faculty Assembly of the National Council for the Social Studies. 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 draw attention to the continued exclusion of GLBT perspectives in social studies curricula. Thornton (2009) notes that, overall, the social studies curriculum in the United States has become more multicultural by including a range of groups and perspectives. Although the contemporary curriculum has moved away from equating "American" with a white, male-centered Protestant tradition, Thornton argues that it is still not representative of all Americans, primarily because it "assumes that 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 curriculum inclusion and encourages stereotypes because it encourages an “us-them attitude” (Thornton, 2009, p.362). Heternormativity describes a vision of American life that is inaccurate, because it marginalizes GLBT lifestyles. This perpetuates intolerance… middle of paper… people will learn about GLBT issues “through a popular [and] prejudiced lens” (Thornton, 2009, p.367). Conclusion Through the silence on gays and lesbians in the Social Studies Curriculum, Thornton (2009) addresses the lack of GLBT 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 incorporating GLBT issues into the curriculum, social studies will be truly inclusive, reflecting the contribution and existence of all parts of society. By showcasing the achievements of GLBT students, teachers empower GLBT students as they gain an understanding of GLBT contributions and close students gain an understanding that all human beings have common needs and characteristics” (Thornton, 2009, p..362).