It’s been awhile since I posted here, and for that I do apologise. I read this article on Mamamia about a new push for there to be a “tool kit” available to both primary (years 5 and 6) and high school (to Year 10), about “non – traditional” families – code word for same – sex families. The creator of this program was responsible for creating the “Gayby Baby” documentary.
Anyone who knows me would know I’m a big fan of any initiative that allows LGBTQ+ people and families to be safe in school environments. I have argued vehemently that teachers and counsellors should be given the correct knowledge to support LGBTQ+ students; including those who are questioning and those who may identify as asexual. But, frankly, I’m wondering whether all this – what people see as “social engineering” – will end up doing the OPPOSITE to what it’s set out to do. Maybe this is about ideology pushing rather than anti – bullying and creating a more welcoming space to those in the LGBTQ+ community.
Further more, I wonder whether this just singles out same – sex families and the LGBTQ+ community; which, ironically, is one of the things bullies will target – those who are “different”. Just let them be!
One of the creators of the Gayby Baby documentary, Maya Newell. She was raised by same – sex parents herself. I can understand her wanting to create awareness about same – sex headed families, but I think the push to have this in schools – along with all the other programs – will only further alienate people that already disagree.
Children know that there are different families. If they aren’t part of one, they most likely know someone who is. Leave schools to teach subjects like English, Maths, etc. Support same – sex attracted/ non – straight/ non – cis – gender youth and families. But hearts won’t be one by endlessly pushing an “agenda” in schools.
Asexuality in A Sexual World 