The issue of sexual orientation is one of personal importance to a great number of children. Researchers and social scientist suggest that 1 to 3 of every 10 students is either gay or lesbian, or has an immediate family member who is. Thus, 3 to 9 kids in every class of 30 has had some direct experience with the issues of homosexuality and homophobia.
Schools have an obligation to support and enhance the self-esteem of all students regardless of their sexual orientation. They are also a logical place to provide accurate information. The negative effects of homophobia on students in educational environments is well documented; suicide, dropping out of school, isolation, violence, homelessness, HIV/AIDS, and depression, to name a few.
Perhaps the most compelling reason for schools to address sexual orientation straightforwardly is that young people are asking. Silence on these issues communicates values just as loudly as responding would. The values that should be taught are ones that encompass respect for one another and caring one another's feelings, regardless of differences.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I believe that everyone deserves the right to feel safe and happy in a school setting. I don't think we should continue to overlook all the question about sexual orientation. School need to be able to teach that no matter what the other person feels or does they still should be respected and cared for.
ReplyDelete