Starting Seeing Diversity - EDUC-6357

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.