My thoughts took me back a few months to a male pageant at my daughters' high school. There were several young men taking part in this event but one stood out to me because of the information my daughter had just learned and shared with me...he was openly gay. Both my daughter and myself were both very happy that he choosing to be part of this event knowing that winning had a lot to do with popularity. I remember sitting in the high school auditorium amazed when he came out to begin his performance. He was wearing tight, pink shiny pants, a feather boa, a large brimmed hat and high heeled boots! He looked awesome and was obviously in his element! But, he was not wearing the typical dress of a senior male in high school. His entrance onto the stage caused one thing.....complete insanity! The high school kids were all screaming and applauding for him. I was applauding but, also could not help from smiling at what I was witnessing. This was something that I never would have seen in my high school. This young man ended up coming in second place! This evening made such an impact on me and it actually gave me hope that this generation may see some change.
Diversity refers to the similarities and differences that individuals posses. Some may see it as "the spice of life" (Budescu, 2012). Sexual orientation would be included in this diversity. We have already had several conversations in class about gay/lesbian individuals and all the stereotypes and such they must endure; especially in high school. For some gay and lesbian adolescents, educational experiences are marked by stigmatization, prejudice, isolation, and discrimination (Budescu, 2012). I never would have known it was possible for a young gay man to not experience all of this on a daily occurrence if I had not seen it with my own eyes.
Elze,D. E. (2003). Gay,lesbian, and bisexual youths' perceptions of their high school enviroments and comfort in school. Children & Schools. 25(4), 225-236.
Molly that is great that the kids were so accepting of that guy on stage. One of my best friends in high school was gay and he was not accepted, at all. Most through high school he self-injured himself as a result and always talked about killing himself. I feel as if now, society is becoming more aware and accepting of homosexuality. I wish there were more groups available for adolescents who are openly gay and do not feel as accepted. High school is hard enough for kids, let alone for those who do not conform to the expected social norms of being straight or gay.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great story to illustrate your topic and yes, it really does show how far we have come. I went to an all girl Catholic high school, so for our theater productions, boys from the local Catholic school came to be the male roles. I am sure that 80% of them were gay, yet it was NEVER spoken about. I think about how hard it must have been, and wonder where these men are now.
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