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Office politics and young people’s awareness/discussion of sexuality
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By *iolet82 OP Woman
over a year ago
strathaven |
Sitting at my desk today I overhead a discussion which I thought started out interesting and LGBT positive (a colleague said her 11 year old daughter told her two of her schools friends were bisexual), however, listening to the conversation develop further (two other colleagues said “that’s wrong and “for god sake I wish people would stop telling our kids how to think”) it began to make me feel uncomfortable and angry.
I wanted to contribute (considering they are all well aware of my sexuality) and say “would you be so offended if your child told you her friends were crushing on boys?” But I was busy working so I continued working and tried to block out the nonsense.
Then the women who started the conversation continued (spurred on by the two close minded homophobes) “yeah and another kid said it was wrong and was reprimanded by the head teacher for being homophobic”. “I would be furious if my child was reprimanded for this”. By this point they were are huffing and puffing with more prejudices against the LGBT becoming commonplace amongst the morons.
My blood was boiling, not only were they talking utter shit (in my opinion) but they were also keeping me off my work. I let it go because I try not to let other people’s views upset me but still I felt it was almost pushed on me. Tbh I will probably raise it at the lunch table tomorrow if said arseholes are in the canteen during my lunch.
Does anyone relate to what these women were saying, basically that kids shouldn’t be aware of/ or flaunt their sexuality if they are LGBT? |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Sitting at my desk today I overhead a discussion which I thought started out interesting and LGBT positive (a colleague said her 11 year old daughter told her two of her schools friends were bisexual), however, listening to the conversation develop further (two other colleagues said “that’s wrong and “for god sake I wish people would stop telling our kids how to think”) it began to make me feel uncomfortable and angry.
I wanted to contribute (considering they are all well aware of my sexuality) and say “would you be so offended if your child told you her friends were crushing on boys?” But I was busy working so I continued working and tried to block out the nonsense.
Then the women who started the conversation continued (spurred on by the two close minded homophobes) “yeah and another kid said it was wrong and was reprimanded by the head teacher for being homophobic”. “I would be furious if my child was reprimanded for this”. By this point they were are huffing and puffing with more prejudices against the LGBT becoming commonplace amongst the morons.
My blood was boiling, not only were they talking utter shit (in my opinion) but they were also keeping me off my work. I let it go because I try not to let other people’s views upset me but still I felt it was almost pushed on me. Tbh I will probably raise it at the lunch table tomorrow if said arseholes are in the canteen during my lunch.
Does anyone relate to what these women were saying, basically that kids shouldn’t be aware of/ or flaunt their sexuality if they are LGBT? "
Its an everyday conversation on here |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Sitting at my desk today I overhead a discussion which I thought started out interesting and LGBT positive (a colleague said her 11 year old daughter told her two of her schools friends were bisexual), however, listening to the conversation develop further (two other colleagues said “that’s wrong and “for god sake I wish people would stop telling our kids how to think”) it began to make me feel uncomfortable and angry.
I wanted to contribute (considering they are all well aware of my sexuality) and say “would you be so offended if your child told you her friends were crushing on boys?” But I was busy working so I continued working and tried to block out the nonsense.
Then the women who started the conversation continued (spurred on by the two close minded homophobes) “yeah and another kid said it was wrong and was reprimanded by the head teacher for being homophobic”. “I would be furious if my child was reprimanded for this”. By this point they were are huffing and puffing with more prejudices against the LGBT becoming commonplace amongst the morons.
My blood was boiling, not only were they talking utter shit (in my opinion) but they were also keeping me off my work. I let it go because I try not to let other people’s views upset me but still I felt it was almost pushed on me. Tbh I will probably raise it at the lunch table tomorrow if said arseholes are in the canteen during my lunch.
Does anyone relate to what these women were saying, basically that kids shouldn’t be aware of/ or flaunt their sexuality if they are LGBT? "
No, it's utter bollocks and so sad that so many think this way. My step daughter is unsure of her sexuality and this kind of ignorance makes my blood boil and is something she experiences from family. I'm lucky she's a strong individual who seeks support from those that love her unconditionally.Why should anyone care who another loves? |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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I have always told my girls (8 & 10) that every sexuality is different, but none are wrong. My girls started asking when we had a friend living with us who was bi-sexual but at that time was with a girl. I told them that love doesn't care if you are male or female and you dont choose who you fall in love with. |
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I wouldn't waste my time getting worked up over a group of bigots.
I would, however, suggest that you contact your Line Manager and HR department to ask if they can prevent these people from disrupting your work environment. |
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"Sitting at my desk today I overhead a discussion which I thought started out interesting and LGBT positive (a colleague said her 11 year old daughter told her two of her schools friends were bisexual), however, listening to the conversation develop further (two other colleagues said “that’s wrong and “for god sake I wish people would stop telling our kids how to think”) it began to make me feel uncomfortable and angry.
I wanted to contribute (considering they are all well aware of my sexuality) and say “would you be so offended if your child told you her friends were crushing on boys?” But I was busy working so I continued working and tried to block out the nonsense.
Then the women who started the conversation continued (spurred on by the two close minded homophobes) “yeah and another kid said it was wrong and was reprimanded by the head teacher for being homophobic”. “I would be furious if my child was reprimanded for this”. By this point they were are huffing and puffing with more prejudices against the LGBT becoming commonplace amongst the morons.
My blood was boiling, not only were they talking utter shit (in my opinion) but they were also keeping me off my work. I let it go because I try not to let other people’s views upset me but still I felt it was almost pushed on me. Tbh I will probably raise it at the lunch table tomorrow if said arseholes are in the canteen during my lunch.
Does anyone relate to what these women were saying, basically that kids shouldn’t be aware of/ or flaunt their sexuality if they are LGBT? "
I can’t say I do relate to what the women were saying , but what is odd is the fact that everyone is aware that you are what you are . I’ve had no end of jobs over the years and I’ve never felt the need to tell any colleagues about my sexuality .
Is the LGBT thing getting to be like being a vegan now ? In the way that everyone says how do you know they are a vegan - oh don’t worry they will soon tell you . |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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All I know is that when I was a kiddie I didn’t have a fucking clue about my “sexuality” .. I just wanted to play football and rugby and fly kites all day. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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We’re these ladies of an older generation OP?
I mean I am no spring chicken now but I would like to think I am raising my kids with the view ‘love whoever’, embrace their sexuality and others, support others if they need it.
Unfortunately for some people you cannot change anyone’s mind on the subject, that’s what they believe so that’s what they are going to teach their kids and in today’s world especially their mindset should be different but like I say you cannot teach old dogs new tricks.
I remember once my ex father in law called one of my sons a horrible homophobic word because he was playing with a doll and I was horrfied such a word came out of his mouth about his own grandchild, I didn’t raise it with him as my son was only small at the time and I didn’t want that awkward silence afterwards, which was wrong of me and I should have spoken up then, I mean as far as I am aware none of my sons are gay but I am more than open with them to talk to me about these things and I hope if they were they would feel at ease to come to me, I am not shy about my sexuality, they are aware their mum is bisexual (the eldest two) because it’s important to me for them to know. |
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I think the issue isn’t so much in schools now (though it’s only in recent years (since 2003) that schools have been permitted to speak positively about anything other than heterosexuality) - but with many parents. My son came home from primary school with words like ‘faggot’ that his peers/friends had used - copied from their parents!
Sadly not all parents are broad minded, un bigoted and sympathetic to all sexualities - so their children are highly likely to be heavily influenced by them!
Because of beliefs held and shared by their peers - I often have to remind my own children that being bi or gay is perfectly ok! |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Sitting at my desk today I overhead a discussion which I thought started out interesting and LGBT positive (a colleague said her 11 year old daughter told her two of her schools friends were bisexual), however, listening to the conversation develop further (two other colleagues said “that’s wrong and “for god sake I wish people would stop telling our kids how to think”) it began to make me feel uncomfortable and angry.
I wanted to contribute (considering they are all well aware of my sexuality) and say “would you be so offended if your child told you her friends were crushing on boys?” But I was busy working so I continued working and tried to block out the nonsense.
Then the women who started the conversation continued (spurred on by the two close minded homophobes) “yeah and another kid said it was wrong and was reprimanded by the head teacher for being homophobic”. “I would be furious if my child was reprimanded for this”. By this point they were are huffing and puffing with more prejudices against the LGBT becoming commonplace amongst the morons.
My blood was boiling, not only were they talking utter shit (in my opinion) but they were also keeping me off my work. I let it go because I try not to let other people’s views upset me but still I felt it was almost pushed on me. Tbh I will probably raise it at the lunch table tomorrow if said arseholes are in the canteen during my lunch.
Does anyone relate to what these women were saying, basically that kids shouldn’t be aware of/ or flaunt their sexuality if they are LGBT?
I can’t say I do relate to what the women were saying , but what is odd is the fact that everyone is aware that you are what you are . I’ve had no end of jobs over the years and I’ve never felt the need to tell any colleagues about my sexuality .
Is the LGBT thing getting to be like being a vegan now ? In the way that everyone says how do you know they are a vegan - oh don’t worry they will soon tell you ."
And why shouldn't people be open about their sexually if they want to be? |
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By *iolet82 OP Woman
over a year ago
strathaven |
"Sitting at my desk today I overhead a discussion which I thought started out interesting and LGBT positive (a colleague said her 11 year old daughter told her two of her schools friends were bisexual), however, listening to the conversation develop further (two other colleagues said “that’s wrong and “for god sake I wish people would stop telling our kids how to think”) it began to make me feel uncomfortable and angry.
I wanted to contribute (considering they are all well aware of my sexuality) and say “would you be so offended if your child told you her friends were crushing on boys?” But I was busy working so I continued working and tried to block out the nonsense.
Then the women who started the conversation continued (spurred on by the two close minded homophobes) “yeah and another kid said it was wrong and was reprimanded by the head teacher for being homophobic”. “I would be furious if my child was reprimanded for this”. By this point they were are huffing and puffing with more prejudices against the LGBT becoming commonplace amongst the morons.
My blood was boiling, not only were they talking utter shit (in my opinion) but they were also keeping me off my work. I let it go because I try not to let other people’s views upset me but still I felt it was almost pushed on me. Tbh I will probably raise it at the lunch table tomorrow if said arseholes are in the canteen during my lunch.
Does anyone relate to what these women were saying, basically that kids shouldn’t be aware of/ or flaunt their sexuality if they are LGBT?
No, it's utter bollocks and so sad that so many think this way. My step daughter is unsure of her sexuality and this kind of ignorance makes my blood boil and is something she experiences from family. I'm lucky she's a strong individual who seeks support from those that love her unconditionally.Why should anyone care who another loves? "
Shame your step daughter (and you) have to put up with this shit. She’s lucky to have your support. Another thing I thought today was- I hope your daughter isn’t testing the water.
I didn’t come out till I was 26 because of this sort of mind set but at least the younger generation have more support to affirm their sexuality- whether it be from LGBT youth support or family and friends. |
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"Sitting at my desk today I overhead a discussion which I thought started out interesting and LGBT positive (a colleague said her 11 year old daughter told her two of her schools friends were bisexual), however, listening to the conversation develop further (two other colleagues said “that’s wrong and “for god sake I wish people would stop telling our kids how to think”) it began to make me feel uncomfortable and angry.
I wanted to contribute (considering they are all well aware of my sexuality) and say “would you be so offended if your child told you her friends were crushing on boys?” But I was busy working so I continued working and tried to block out the nonsense.
Then the women who started the conversation continued (spurred on by the two close minded homophobes) “yeah and another kid said it was wrong and was reprimanded by the head teacher for being homophobic”. “I would be furious if my child was reprimanded for this”. By this point they were are huffing and puffing with more prejudices against the LGBT becoming commonplace amongst the morons.
My blood was boiling, not only were they talking utter shit (in my opinion) but they were also keeping me off my work. I let it go because I try not to let other people’s views upset me but still I felt it was almost pushed on me. Tbh I will probably raise it at the lunch table tomorrow if said arseholes are in the canteen during my lunch.
Does anyone relate to what these women were saying, basically that kids shouldn’t be aware of/ or flaunt their sexuality if they are LGBT?
I can’t say I do relate to what the women were saying , but what is odd is the fact that everyone is aware that you are what you are . I’ve had no end of jobs over the years and I’ve never felt the need to tell any colleagues about my sexuality .
Is the LGBT thing getting to be like being a vegan now ? In the way that everyone says how do you know they are a vegan - oh don’t worry they will soon tell you .
And why shouldn't people be open about their sexually if they want to be? "
I didn’t say they shouldn’t , I said I never felt the urge to tell everyone about mine . And I do find it odd . Perhaps it is a generation thing , I don’t know , but it just never occurs to me to tell anyone about my sexuality .
So in just the same way as people seem to get perplexed by vegans spouting off at every conceivable opportunity that they are vegan , I asked whether the LGBT community is heading the same way .
I don’t mind people being open about their sexuality at all , I’m just of a generation where it wasn’t the done thing to do so , and I have friends who I’ve known for thirty years who don’t know anything about me sexually and vice versa . |
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I work with people who refer to gay men and women as "those sort" and express similar views to your colleagues op. I add my opinion to the discussion if appropriate and hope that hearing an opposing view might have some influence but no doubt they hope to influence me. |
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By *iolet82 OP Woman
over a year ago
strathaven |
"I have always told my girls (8 & 10) that every sexuality is different, but none are wrong. My girls started asking when we had a friend living with us who was bi-sexual but at that time was with a girl. I told them that love doesn't care if you are male or female and you dont choose who you fall in love with. "
Put a very clear way for youngsters to understand. Prejudice is handed down form close minded parents/adults. I wonder how many years before it stops becoming an issue and just reality for all. |
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By *iolet82 OP Woman
over a year ago
strathaven |
"I wouldn't waste my time getting worked up over a group of bigots.
I would, however, suggest that you contact your Line Manager and HR department to ask if they can prevent these people from disrupting your work environment."
 I hadn’t even considered that. Why should I get involved. There topic of discussion was inappropriate at least. Not my issue to deal with that. Thank you. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
I regularly conduct inclusion training in my workplace and am very proactive in ensuring the workforce are respectful of each other and their opinions.
Any conversation, which is within earshot of me, will be challenged if it doesn't meet a standard of common decency. You cannot police what goes on inside someone's head, but you can make sure that whatever comes out of their mouth doesn't cause offence.
Education is the preferred option, but there is always a disciplinary route for repeat offenders.
|
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By *iolet82 OP Woman
over a year ago
strathaven |
"Sitting at my desk today I overhead a discussion which I thought started out interesting and LGBT positive (a colleague said her 11 year old daughter told her two of her schools friends were bisexual), however, listening to the conversation develop further (two other colleagues said “that’s wrong and “for god sake I wish people would stop telling our kids how to think”) it began to make me feel uncomfortable and angry.
I wanted to contribute (considering they are all well aware of my sexuality) and say “would you be so offended if your child told you her friends were crushing on boys?” But I was busy working so I continued working and tried to block out the nonsense.
Then the women who started the conversation continued (spurred on by the two close minded homophobes) “yeah and another kid said it was wrong and was reprimanded by the head teacher for being homophobic”. “I would be furious if my child was reprimanded for this”. By this point they were are huffing and puffing with more prejudices against the LGBT becoming commonplace amongst the morons.
My blood was boiling, not only were they talking utter shit (in my opinion) but they were also keeping me off my work. I let it go because I try not to let other people’s views upset me but still I felt it was almost pushed on me. Tbh I will probably raise it at the lunch table tomorrow if said arseholes are in the canteen during my lunch.
Does anyone relate to what these women were saying, basically that kids shouldn’t be aware of/ or flaunt their sexuality if they are LGBT?
I can’t say I do relate to what the women were saying , but what is odd is the fact that everyone is aware that you are what you are . I’ve had no end of jobs over the years and I’ve never felt the need to tell any colleagues about my sexuality .
Is the LGBT thing getting to be like being a vegan now ? In the way that everyone says how do you know they are a vegan - oh don’t worry they will soon tell you ."
I have worked there for 14 years. The said colleagues knew I had a boyfriend when I started work there, and were at my wedding when I married my wife. I don’t go around with a sticker on stating my sexuality.
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Sitting at my desk today I overhead a discussion which I thought started out interesting and LGBT positive (a colleague said her 11 year old daughter told her two of her schools friends were bisexual), however, listening to the conversation develop further (two other colleagues said “that’s wrong and “for god sake I wish people would stop telling our kids how to think”) it began to make me feel uncomfortable and angry.
I wanted to contribute (considering they are all well aware of my sexuality) and say “would you be so offended if your child told you her friends were crushing on boys?” But I was busy working so I continued working and tried to block out the nonsense.
Then the women who started the conversation continued (spurred on by the two close minded homophobes) “yeah and another kid said it was wrong and was reprimanded by the head teacher for being homophobic”. “I would be furious if my child was reprimanded for this”. By this point they were are huffing and puffing with more prejudices against the LGBT becoming commonplace amongst the morons.
My blood was boiling, not only were they talking utter shit (in my opinion) but they were also keeping me off my work. I let it go because I try not to let other people’s views upset me but still I felt it was almost pushed on me. Tbh I will probably raise it at the lunch table tomorrow if said arseholes are in the canteen during my lunch.
Does anyone relate to what these women were saying, basically that kids shouldn’t be aware of/ or flaunt their sexuality if they are LGBT?
No, it's utter bollocks and so sad that so many think this way. My step daughter is unsure of her sexuality and this kind of ignorance makes my blood boil and is something she experiences from family. I'm lucky she's a strong individual who seeks support from those that love her unconditionally.Why should anyone care who another loves?
Shame your step daughter (and you) have to put up with this shit. She’s lucky to have your support. Another thing I thought today was- I hope your daughter isn’t testing the water.
I didn’t come out till I was 26 because of this sort of mind set but at least the younger generation have more support to affirm their sexuality- whether it be from LGBT youth support or family and friends."
It's so bloody sad. She talks about everything and knows there's no judgement on anything where we are concerned. But the outside world isn't always as open minded so that worries me for the future. |
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By *iolet82 OP Woman
over a year ago
strathaven |
"We’re these ladies of an older generation OP?
I mean I am no spring chicken now but I would like to think I am raising my kids with the view ‘love whoever’, embrace their sexuality and others, support others if they need it.
Unfortunately for some people you cannot change anyone’s mind on the subject, that’s what they believe so that’s what they are going to teach their kids and in today’s world especially their mindset should be different but like I say you cannot teach old dogs new tricks.
I remember once my ex father in law called one of my sons a horrible homophobic word because he was playing with a doll and I was horrfied such a word came out of his mouth about his own grandchild, I didn’t raise it with him as my son was only small at the time and I didn’t want that awkward silence afterwards, which was wrong of me and I should have spoken up then, I mean as far as I am aware none of my sons are gay but I am more than open with them to talk to me about these things and I hope if they were they would feel at ease to come to me, I am not shy about my sexuality, they are aware their mum is bisexual (the eldest two) because it’s important to me for them to know."
They are all in their early 50s. I agree some are stuck in their ways but I also think this view condones ignorance. My gran (who was the most dedicated Catholic I have ever knew) even accepted homosexuality when she was in her 90s- she would be 100 years this year. Her saying so helped instil my faith in humanity. |
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"Sitting at my desk today I overhead a discussion which I thought started out interesting and LGBT positive (a colleague said her 11 year old daughter told her two of her schools friends were bisexual), however, listening to the conversation develop further (two other colleagues said “that’s wrong and “for god sake I wish people would stop telling our kids how to think”) it began to make me feel uncomfortable and angry.
I wanted to contribute (considering they are all well aware of my sexuality) and say “would you be so offended if your child told you her friends were crushing on boys?” But I was busy working so I continued working and tried to block out the nonsense.
Then the women who started the conversation continued (spurred on by the two close minded homophobes) “yeah and another kid said it was wrong and was reprimanded by the head teacher for being homophobic”. “I would be furious if my child was reprimanded for this”. By this point they were are huffing and puffing with more prejudices against the LGBT becoming commonplace amongst the morons.
My blood was boiling, not only were they talking utter shit (in my opinion) but they were also keeping me off my work. I let it go because I try not to let other people’s views upset me but still I felt it was almost pushed on me. Tbh I will probably raise it at the lunch table tomorrow if said arseholes are in the canteen during my lunch.
Does anyone relate to what these women were saying, basically that kids shouldn’t be aware of/ or flaunt their sexuality if they are LGBT?
I can’t say I do relate to what the women were saying , but what is odd is the fact that everyone is aware that you are what you are . I’ve had no end of jobs over the years and I’ve never felt the need to tell any colleagues about my sexuality .
Is the LGBT thing getting to be like being a vegan now ? In the way that everyone says how do you know they are a vegan - oh don’t worry they will soon tell you .
I have worked there for 14 years. The said colleagues knew I had a boyfriend when I started work there, and were at my wedding when I married my wife. I don’t go around with a sticker on stating my sexuality.
"
Ah , fair enough . My apologies |
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By *iolet82 OP Woman
over a year ago
strathaven |
"I think the issue isn’t so much in schools now (though it’s only in recent years (since 2003) that schools have been permitted to speak positively about anything other than heterosexuality) - but with many parents. My son came home from primary school with words like ‘faggot’ that his peers/friends had used - copied from their parents!
Sadly not all parents are broad minded, un bigoted and sympathetic to all sexualities - so their children are highly likely to be heavily influenced by them!
Because of beliefs held and shared by their peers - I often have to remind my own children that being bi or gay is perfectly ok! "
|
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By *iolet82 OP Woman
over a year ago
strathaven |
"I regularly conduct inclusion training in my workplace and am very proactive in ensuring the workforce are respectful of each other and their opinions.
Any conversation, which is within earshot of me, will be challenged if it doesn't meet a standard of common decency. You cannot police what goes on inside someone's head, but you can make sure that whatever comes out of their mouth doesn't cause offence.
Education is the preferred option, but there is always a disciplinary route for repeat offenders.
"
Yes I can’t/ and shouldn’t ignore their comments. The fact that I’m sitting here now and letting in bother me, I know I should have at least said something. Although I am a highly sensitive person so took it as an attack when really they were most likely just expressing their bigotry opinions. HR will be receiving an email tomorrow. |
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By *iolet82 OP Woman
over a year ago
strathaven |
"Sitting at my desk today I overhead a discussion which I thought started out interesting and LGBT positive (a colleague said her 11 year old daughter told her two of her schools friends were bisexual), however, listening to the conversation develop further (two other colleagues said “that’s wrong and “for god sake I wish people would stop telling our kids how to think”) it began to make me feel uncomfortable and angry.
I wanted to contribute (considering they are all well aware of my sexuality) and say “would you be so offended if your child told you her friends were crushing on boys?” But I was busy working so I continued working and tried to block out the nonsense.
Then the women who started the conversation continued (spurred on by the two close minded homophobes) “yeah and another kid said it was wrong and was reprimanded by the head teacher for being homophobic”. “I would be furious if my child was reprimanded for this”. By this point they were are huffing and puffing with more prejudices against the LGBT becoming commonplace amongst the morons.
My blood was boiling, not only were they talking utter shit (in my opinion) but they were also keeping me off my work. I let it go because I try not to let other people’s views upset me but still I felt it was almost pushed on me. Tbh I will probably raise it at the lunch table tomorrow if said arseholes are in the canteen during my lunch.
Does anyone relate to what these women were saying, basically that kids shouldn’t be aware of/ or flaunt their sexuality if they are LGBT?
I can’t say I do relate to what the women were saying , but what is odd is the fact that everyone is aware that you are what you are . I’ve had no end of jobs over the years and I’ve never felt the need to tell any colleagues about my sexuality .
Is the LGBT thing getting to be like being a vegan now ? In the way that everyone says how do you know they are a vegan - oh don’t worry they will soon tell you .
And why shouldn't people be open about their sexually if they want to be? "
Point |
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The only thing I'd have agreed with is that 11 years old is quite young to be "flaunting their sexuality" at all, no matter what they are.
Add a few years to that age and if have taken issue with what they were saying. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Sitting at my desk today I overhead a discussion which I thought started out interesting and LGBT positive (a colleague said her 11 year old daughter told her two of her schools friends were bisexual), however, listening to the conversation develop further (two other colleagues said “that’s wrong and “for god sake I wish people would stop telling our kids how to think”) it began to make me feel uncomfortable and angry.
I wanted to contribute (considering they are all well aware of my sexuality) and say “would you be so offended if your child told you her friends were crushing on boys?” But I was busy working so I continued working and tried to block out the nonsense.
Then the women who started the conversation continued (spurred on by the two close minded homophobes) “yeah and another kid said it was wrong and was reprimanded by the head teacher for being homophobic”. “I would be furious if my child was reprimanded for this”. By this point they were are huffing and puffing with more prejudices against the LGBT becoming commonplace amongst the morons.
My blood was boiling, not only were they talking utter shit (in my opinion) but they were also keeping me off my work. I let it go because I try not to let other people’s views upset me but still I felt it was almost pushed on me. Tbh I will probably raise it at the lunch table tomorrow if said arseholes are in the canteen during my lunch.
Does anyone relate to what these women were saying, basically that kids shouldn’t be aware of/ or flaunt their sexuality if they are LGBT?
I can’t say I do relate to what the women were saying , but what is odd is the fact that everyone is aware that you are what you are . I’ve had no end of jobs over the years and I’ve never felt the need to tell any colleagues about my sexuality .
Is the LGBT thing getting to be like being a vegan now ? In the way that everyone says how do you know they are a vegan - oh don’t worry they will soon tell you .
And why shouldn't people be open about their sexually if they want to be?
Point"
Exactly...both our girls know i like girls and boys, but also know i am with Daddy because we fell in love. X |
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I don't see how 8-11 year olds can have a sexuality. They are children and if my kids said they had a sexuality at that age, id ask them who they were talking to and tell them they will find out when they are older what sexuality they are. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"I don't see how 8-11 year olds can have a sexuality. They are children and if my kids said they had a sexuality at that age, id ask them who they were talking to and tell them they will find out when they are older what sexuality they are."
I don't think they can either, they don't have a clue about proper attraction or love, but doesn't mean you can't be open with them |
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It's healthy for children to discuss age appropriate information on sexual orientations. Their personal understandings and interests will be discussed amongst themselves and it's healthy for them to be open with family.
What's wrong is for bigots to make colleagues uncomfortable about preferences and to put down bi or gay preferences as bad - they're potentially breaking the law.
Children deserve to be raised and supported in a tolerant and loving environment, as they discover more about themselves and life. It's just a pity that some parents don't have and demonstrate unconditional love for their children.
Homophobic, biphobic etc prejudice is diminishing and bigots will continue to become oddities in society.
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By *iolet82 OP Woman
over a year ago
strathaven |
"It's healthy for children to discuss age appropriate information on sexual orientations. Their personal understandings and interests will be discussed amongst themselves and it's healthy for them to be open with family.
What's wrong is for bigots to make colleagues uncomfortable about preferences and to put down bi or gay preferences as bad - they're potentially breaking the law.
Children deserve to be raised and supported in a tolerant and loving environment, as they discover more about themselves and life. It's just a pity that some parents don't have and demonstrate unconditional love for their children.
Homophobic, biphobic etc prejudice is diminishing and bigots will continue to become oddities in society.
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Well said???? |
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By *iolet82 OP Woman
over a year ago
strathaven |
"I don't see how 8-11 year olds can have a sexuality. They are children and if my kids said they had a sexuality at that age, id ask them who they were talking to and tell them they will find out when they are older what sexuality they are."
I disagree with that. Puberty begins around 8 years old I think, not in physical sings but mentally. I was told this by a child psychotherapist so I could be wrong as I didn’t conduct any further reading into it.
I had a friend when I was growing up (who we all knew was gay) by the age of 8ish, and he is gay. Maybe just a lucky guess. But sexuality is not something you learn but rather you are born with so why would age determine when you start to talk about/express it. Lots of young kids I know say “he/she is my boyfriend/girlfriend. Maybe that’s more to do with them watching their heterosexual sexual parents together. Time will tell for me on that one as my children are growing up with two mummies. |
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"I don't see how 8-11 year olds can have a sexuality. They are children and if my kids said they had a sexuality at that age, id ask them who they were talking to and tell them they will find out when they are older what sexuality they are."
A lot of younger people have a sense of their sexual orientation, though it is not an adult understanding, nor about adult needs. When younger people learn age appropriate rudimentary details about gay or bi sexualities, they grasp what their natural interests are. If you are the only person that you know who is like you, that's a potentially liberating point in your life. It may be a very profound moment and of the type that a straight person won't be subject to. |
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"But sexuality is not something you learn but rather you are born with so why would age determine when you start to talk about/express it."
You're born a certain way, but all children are asexual. All. Any child acting sexually should be sent to be checked out. Chemicals that make us act on our urges do not get released into the body until well, well into puberty. Thats why puberty can be so confusing for people as basically until they are 18 their chemicals will be in flux. It's also why some people experiment when 16-18 and then never do again.
no one at all will know their real sexuality until they are around 18 years old. Up until then its just copying what they see and what they are told and so on.
Most of us will still be what we feel when we are 15 when we are 18, but some people specially in America where being gay is trendy have said they are gay, acted out gay, and then when 18 comes they are sure they are straight. Its the same thing that happens some gay people over here, they act straight until they are 18 cause its what their "community" tells them, then when 18 know they are gay.
Of course some will know early they are gay and them feeling wont change, but for them people we just need to let them become secure in who they are, for the rest we need to protect them, we need to stop gay people being told to act straight, and straight kids to act lesbian, because if they turn out the opposite it has a big affect on them.
But no one will be hurt by being told to wait till they are older and they will find out one way or another if they are gay, bi, or straight, when all their hormones have settles, when all the chemicals have reached their natural levels.
Thats how I feel anyway. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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No doubt if their kids at pre-school held hands with someone of the opposite sex they'd be like "AWWW LOOK LITTLE 5 YEAR OLD JIMMY HAS A GIRLFRIEND" yet when it's two young people of the same sex those same people are usually "EWW WHY ARE PEOPLE FORCING THIS ON MY KIDS"
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"I regularly conduct inclusion training in my workplace and am very proactive in ensuring the workforce are respectful of each other and their opinions.
Any conversation, which is within earshot of me, will be challenged if it doesn't meet a standard of common decency. You cannot police what goes on inside someone's head, but you can make sure that whatever comes out of their mouth doesn't cause offence.
Education is the preferred option, but there is always a disciplinary route for repeat offenders.
Yes I can’t/ and shouldn’t ignore their comments. The fact that I’m sitting here now and letting in bother me, I know I should have at least said something. Although I am a highly sensitive person so took it as an attack when really they were most likely just expressing their bigotry opinions. HR will be receiving an email tomorrow. "
Surely it would be better to speak to these people first before speaking to HR, tell them you were upset by their comments and do not wish to hear similar conversations again.Nobody likes a "grass" and that is what you will end up looking like unless you give them chance to clear the matter up. |
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"I don't see how 8-11 year olds can have a sexuality. They are children and if my kids said they had a sexuality at that age, id ask them who they were talking to and tell them they will find out when they are older what sexuality they are."
Yet boys are often asked if they have girlfriends at school and girls are asked if they have boyfriends. We are ok asking them about being heterosexuals, just nothing else? |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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If a child is discussing it I see no problem, any opportunity to talk (appropriate for age) is good. Surpressing or dismissing feelings/ emotions is not good for anyone.
I always feel frustrated when people are bigoted but it can sometimes come from fear/ lack of knowledge. Doesn't make it right though. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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In the office these days there is no need for conversation on topical issues. Simply turn a deaf ear and get on with work. If not have a quiet word with trusted seniors. Keep out of it is my advice. |
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