I had encounter situations wherein a parent / family were
concerned about having a homosexual teacher in the classroom. They were worried
about leaving the child under his care because of the perception that "most
of the homosexuals are sex offenders".
Another concern also is having a male teacher in the classroom. Some of
our parents are requesting to move their child to another room because they do
not want a male changing their child's diapers. These common perceptions hinder
the relationship between our families and children. This does not only affect them but also the teacher who is
perceived in a negative way. It is very important that we have an open communication
with the parent / family's so that we can talk about their concerns and assured
them that we have teachers that are well trained and has security clearance,
environment that is safe and secured and a program that encourages diversity and equity.
It is also my obligation to explain to families and parents that we cannot
discriminate people based on their race, color, age, religion, gender and
sexual orientation. Teachers were chosen to be in our center because they
qualify and have met all the requirements needed for the job. If things were
not resolved, we refer them to their command and make a request letter to have
their child transferred in which case they will not do it because they will be
reprimanded for discrimination. Same way
applies to our teachers who has issues with parents because of their sexual
orientation. We encourage our teachers to be respectful to our children and
families no matter who they are and where they come from.
I have experienced being called a "tomboy" or
lesbian when I was little and even until now. It was difficult when I was
little because that is the time wherein a child start to build their own
identity. I would like to prove that I am a girl who just love to do "boys
stuff" and it was so frustrating for me because I grew up in a culture
wherein there were only two genders- a girl or a boy. Girl who does girl stuff and boys who do boys
stuff anything between it is considered sickness or abnormality. As a child, I
tried to ignore all those comments and just do what I loved to do. I am really
glad I did it my way because I really enjoyed my childhood especially the part
of playing outdoors. Although I have not so good experienced at school, I grew
up being comfortable to who I am because of the family I have.
Even until now, I am being perceived as lesbian because of
the way I walk and the way I look but this time it is much better because aside
for being comfortable with myself , my own family is very comfortable of who I
am and love me the way I am. I cannot ask for anything more because I have a family who accepts and supports me for who I am.
