Let’s eliminate slurs against gays

Jan. 24-28 was No Name Calling Week. Started by the Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network (GLSEN), it is a week devoted to raising awareness about the verbiage we use to converse with one another and to combat bullying in our schools. How sad that on the first day, my son heard one especially common slur and other gay insults used multiple times while in school.

As a gay youth, he is subjected to this sophomoric and hostile discourse daily. Although not always directed at him, it is meant for him and others who do not fit our society’s model of what a male/female is supposed to be. In light of the passage of the anti-bullying bill signed by Gov. Quinn last summer and the rash of suicides that have swept the country by teens who have been subjected to anti-gay rhetoric, this is very disheartening.

All youth are worthy of our protection and love. It is my passion to educate my community about the importance of protecting our LGBTQ youth. The anguish that the verbal and sometimes physical abuse can cause is heart wrenching. My son is fortunate to have two accepting parents that love him unconditionally. Despite the vitriol he hears on the outside, he will come home to an environment that embraces him with love.

Imagine being a child who recognizes being gay, but knows that if he or she comes out, there is the risk of being beaten, verbally ridiculed, or outcast.

How can society not see that these actions are harming our kids? The campaign of “It Gets Better” has raised awareness and sent a powerful message. Times and attitudes are changing, but there is more to be done.

My goal is for our youth to feel they have someone standing on the side of love for them. The teen years can be tumultuous enough without having to hide behind a curtain of shame and falsity.

My hope is that one day, there won’t be offensive slurs in the locker room and school hallways, but instead a group of students who can recognize and respect the diversity that this country upholds.

Maureen Goldin

PFLAG Mom/Straight Ally

Libertyville