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“Studies show that lesbian, gay and bisexual people show higher levels of anxiety, depression and suicidal feelings than heterosexual men and women.”
This quote is taken directly from the NHS website. It seems that as a society, we are well aware that the mental well-being of our LGBTQ+ people (and ofc non-binary siblings) is vulnerable.
These mental health conditions can be linked to, or caused by, hostility or rejection from family parents and friends; bullying and name-calling at school; danger of violence; casual homophobia and negative portrayal of gay people in the media.
In some medical cases, doctors talk of prevention rather then cure. This could well be the ideal solution in tackling what is almost an epidemic amongst the LGBTQ+ community.
We can prevent homophobia, discrimination and prejudice developing if we catch it early enough. This is why it’s vital to start educating children at primary and junior age, teaching them about equality and diversity, and introducing......
.....equality lessons which cover LGBTQ+ themes in an age appropriate way. We must teach new generations to respect one another, regardless of preferred identity or orientation.
• Almost half of primary school teachers say that pupils at their school have experienced homophobic bullying or name-calling.
• Seven in ten primary school teachers hear pupils use expressions like "That’s so gay" or "you’re so gay’ in school"
The report shares cases of homophobic bullying experienced by students first hand. David (aged 17) shared his experience, "I’ve been bullied since I was in class 6. I’ve been called numerous names in the corridor, I’ve been hit.
A lot of people have argued with me about how being gay is wrong. I’ve had a death threat sent to me....."
Failing to eliminate this dangerous kind of discriminatory bullying is not only unfair, but it is unlawful. Sex/Gender, Sexual Orientation and Gender reassignment are all protected characteristics under the 2010 Equality Act.
This Act was created to protect people from discrimination in their workplace and in society, but it is important we don’t forget that the act encompasses children as well as adults and they deserve to feel equally protected in their space, in their schools.
We must uphold their rights as much as we do anyone else’s, whilst teaching all children that regardless of their individuality, prejudice or bullying of any kind is not ok.
By halting discriminatory ideas and behaviours in earlier years, we may very well be helping to save the lives of future LGBTQ+ young people and adults.
Helpful advice: Pop’n’Olly, regularly produce LGBT+ and equality educational resources for children, parents and teachers. Their videos and books are currently being used in classrooms across the UK and beyond.
Link to Pop’n’Olly: https://www.popnolly.com/ ">https://www.popnolly.com/">...
Link to Pop’n’Olly: https://www.popnolly.com/ ">https://www.popnolly.com/">...
End of thread. STOP HOMOPHOBIA. Spread Love.
