I must admit that I was saddened to read about the recent cancellation of a speaking event involving ‘Queer Storytime Adventures’ at a Chilliwack school due to potential protests, not only because of what it says about my community (or, at least, part of my community) but, more importantly, what it says about the anti-SOGI contingent.
Many members of this group believe schools are pushing a “radical-trans-queer” agenda that has nothing to do with inclusivity. They claim that they are exposing children to inappropriate books and curriculum. They sense that their children are being taught that they can change genders. They are concerned about the socialization and indoctrination – rather than education – that they claim is happening in schools.
But this was a protest of an event at which attendance was voluntary, not part of any school programming.
Which means that some people were going out of their way to quash an event that didn’t sit well with them - opposed, I would imagine, to anything LGBTQ-related. An event intended to educate and foster understanding and inclusion was halted by a group who didn’t feel that that was an honourable objective.
So much for agreeing with the notion of inclusivity.
For the record, the problematic event in question was to be a celebration of Family Equality Day and “Embracing Your Rainbow”. It was an opportunity to join Stacey Chomiak, a local talented LGBTQ speaker, artist, and author of the YA novel “Still Stace”, for a captivating discussion and FREE public reading of her heartwarming illustrated books, “Rainbow Boy” and “Who You Will Be” for families and people of all ages. Sounds innocuous.
But clearly, some are still having trouble with the acceptance of members of the LGBTQ community. They fail to understand that this is all about building safe and caring school communities, laying the foundation for a more caring and respectful society, one in which everyone can be accepted for who they are, be allowed to live their best lives, to be their best selves.
So, needless to say, there is a concern that anti-SOGI voices and movements send a message that being anything but heterosexual is wrong. And if this is indeed the message, where is it coming from? What’s the real genesis of the fear? Is it:
Religious Beliefs? Some parents hold strong religious convictions that clash with the SOGI program.
Lack of Understanding? Misunderstanding about the program’s intent and content can contribute to fear.
Social Norms and Prejudice? Societal norms and biases play a role in shaping attitudes toward LGBTQ+ issues.
Media Influence? Media coverage and misinformation can amplify fears and misconceptions.
Somehow, we have to get to the source of the problem if we are to move forward…together. We need to have some civil discourse about concerns and values, and see how we can find common ground. We need to discuss how we can truly achieve mutual respect and understanding.
Until then, our communities cannot be safe…or healthy. And isn’t that what we really want for our children?
Comentários