Sexual Orientation

It appears that everyone has their own set of stereotypes. Stereotypes are simply a broad category of expected behaviour that limits a person, often times negatively and correlated with sexism.

There is also a certain gender bias which consists of unexamined baggage but is primarily being a good role model.

One of the most concerning gender issues is a cluster if negative attitudes and feelings towards gay people. This negativity includes intolerance, hatred and fear.

Homophobia was always in our school. It seemed as though everyone used the odd, "don't be such a fag," or other harmful and hurtful accusation. One of my better friends in my graduation class came out as a bisexual our grade eleven year. It was extremely hard for him growing up because he never had similar interests as the other twelve boys in our class, and they were very quick to point out his differences. I don't particularly place importance on a persons sexual orientation but rather their personality and that alike. He was always a good friend to me so nothing else really matters.

I would agree with the fact that researchers that males are typically more homophobic than females. Growing up in the same home with the same parents and environment acting on us, my brother has developed homophobia which I have tried to rationalize him out of. However it makes him uncomfortable to be around fellow males with the same sex preference. I think that it is a personal choice which we all make.

As a teacher it is our job to ensure our classroom is always a safe and comfortable learning environment. Growing up as I did I witnessed hostility and harassment that someone should've never been put through. I don't blame the teachers because they can't control what goes on outside the classroom as much as they would like to, however I plan on opening up in the classroom where kids are able to be themselves and not worry about what will happen after school hours.