So, I checked one of the profiles of an elementary school classmate and I couldn't help but recall the period when I was in 5th grade or so.
There was this kid that the class would make fun of because he was flamboyant and just seemed strange. At the time, I don't think I even truly understood if he was gay or not. Obviously, he was aware of his identity.
Anyway, people would make jokes about him and be kind of unpleasant. I don't think any of us ever used any slurs, but it really doesn't make it less unacceptable.
I checked the classmate's Twitter, and he at least seems to be doing well professionally. He has an extremely supportive family and partner, which is great to see.
I know my story sadly isn't unique. I'm really glad that I moved away from that in my mid-teens or so, but it's very frightening that I even played a part in gay intolerance.
It doesn't matter if we were just stupid young kids. It's inexcusable, and those of us who are awake must seriously spread gender awareness and acceptance to the young.
There was this kid that the class would make fun of because he was flamboyant and just seemed strange. At the time, I don't think I even truly understood if he was gay or not. Obviously, he was aware of his identity.
Anyway, people would make jokes about him and be kind of unpleasant. I don't think any of us ever used any slurs, but it really doesn't make it less unacceptable.
I checked the classmate's Twitter, and he at least seems to be doing well professionally. He has an extremely supportive family and partner, which is great to see.
I know my story sadly isn't unique. I'm really glad that I moved away from that in my mid-teens or so, but it's very frightening that I even played a part in gay intolerance.
It doesn't matter if we were just stupid young kids. It's inexcusable, and those of us who are awake must seriously spread gender awareness and acceptance to the young.