Thursday, March 6, 2008
A clarification on the last post
I wanted to bring up my essays connection to free speech. Sometimes although we are “guaranteed the right to free speech” something else prevents us from speaking out. I remember how taboo it was to speak about having a gay member in the family during grade school. It was especially hard to say that my uncle had died of AIDS. If schools were to implement programs which taught about tolerance it would become easier to express who we are. Students could find support in those who share similar struggles. I feel that by preventing programs that teach tolerance we are snuffing out student’s freedom of expression. In retrospect, had tolerance programs in school been available I would have had an outlet to express my deep sadness and alienation at having to keep a part of my life secret. There were many consequences including my poor attendance at school, lower grades and spending lunch time alone.
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Yes, it is really very hard for children to be understood especially when they are going through what you went through. I am so sorry to hear about your uncle. That must be hard because he is family... not just a neighbor or some casual friend of the family. I agree with you that tolerance and acceptance should be widely taught in school beginning in the elementary. Our governmebnt should have programs where there is advocacy for children and extended resources for support to protect them from violence and neglect. Tolerance and acceptance are learned. If we would all learn to be more accepting of others in whatever shape, color or form, one does not have to miss school or eat in solitude to hide the fact that a dear family member pass away from aids. I hope that our society can be changed for the better.
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