Posts From the Front: It Really is Elementary
A post made in response to somebody upset about films shown in schools about gays and lesbians

In addition to providing useful (I hope) information speaking my mind here I spend time around the "Internet" reading and participating in ongoing discussions about politics and political issues, both in general and as they relate to gay and lesbian issues.

Since I know that for every single participant there are probably at least one hundred "lurkers," I believe it is important for those of us able and willing to do so to respond to ignorance and provide information, so that those who are merely passing by do not see unanswered mis or disinformation, but have facts and legitimate information at their disposal.

In this recent example from my wanderings the original poster had no doubt heard about the film "It's Elementary: Talking About Gay Issues In School," described by Women's Educational Media as "a highly acclaimed film shot in first through eighth grade classrooms across the United States. The film, intended for an adult audience, is a window into what really happens when educators address gay issues with their students in age-appropriate ways."

Here's the brief exchange:

I realize that not ALL schools have had gay people try to talk to the kids, but I know that it HAS happened, and I just think it is wrong. Every group has it's more calmer members, and it's more radical members.

However, I have a BIG problem with gay film producers who make videos to be shown to children as young as kindergarten, telling them about the gay lifestyle, or that it is ok. I'm sorry, but I belive that homosexuality is wrong, and it is not a topic that should be talked about to young children, especially by gays.

There is nothing radical about doing everything possible to ensure that hatred and bigotry stemming from ignorance will not affect another generation.

If gay couples shouldn't have children because their children might be teased, then it is time to teach children not to tease.

If gay teens are going to kill themselves because they're afraid to tell their parents or their friends then we need a Project 10 and similar programs to provide peer counseling and straight (no pun intended ;>) facts.

If criminal morons are going to feel that it is acceptable to beat and leave for dead a person because when *they* went into a gay or gay frequented establishment that person expressed an interest then it is time to let everybody know that is *not* acceptable and will not be tolerated in or by a civilized society.

When you have seemingly intelligent people using the word "lifestyle" which means nothing more than all the same ways they make daily choices in their lives (Steak or chicken tonight? What day of the week to do laundry? To what college should I apply?) it is clear that ignorance continues to be pervasive and education is a societal obligation.

Label me radical if you will --- but members of a civilized society know better, and know that the designation reflects, in this case, on the speaker.

Deborah

P.S. Many of those films are produced by straight producers. Imagine!

See how easy that was? Try it some time --- you'll like it!