My response to those who believe that early childhood centers should avoid the inclusion of books depicting gay or lesbian individuals such as same –sex partnered families.
We have to educate our children on the different types of families and help them to understand that there is no shame in having same-sex partnered families, but it is important for all children to have a family based on love and care. “Some people confuse teaching about different kinds of families with teaching about sexuality. Children’s interest in “family” has to do with who lives in their home, who takes care of them, who loves them—not the sexual life of the family’s adults” (Derman-Sparks& Edwards, 2010, p. 123).
How would I respond to a parent/family member who informed me they did not want anyone who is perceived (or self-reported) homosexual or transgender to be caring for, educating, and/or interacting with their child?
I would inform them that a person’s sexuality do not define who they are. It is only one aspect of their identity. We should not judge a person based on the gender of the person they chose to love. Just because a person is gay do not mean he or she will try to influence your child to be gay. Heterosexual individuals can have hidden identities about themselves as well. We are all human beings and any form of bias is negative and hurtful. I would also ask the individuals to look at themselves in the mirror and think about their identity and ask yourself would you want to be isolated because of an aspect of your identity. “Sexual orientation does not affect one’s job qualifications. Some people fear that gay men and lesbians are sexually irresponsible and less trustworthy than heterosexuals. (In fact it is well documented that the overwhelming majority of those who molest children are heterosexual men)” (Safe Zone, 2011).
References
Derman-Sparks, L. & Edwards, J. O. (2010). Anti-Bias Education for Young Children and
Ourselves. Washington, DC: NAEYC.
Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Frequently Asked Questions. (2011). Safezone. Retrieved from
