By Diana French
French Connection columnist
Who remembers the golden rule? “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Or “Love your brother as you love yourself” – or any other variation. Today, many of us prefer to be disagreeable to people who are different from us, we are more into hate than love, war than peace. Our modern methods (TV, Facebook) of spreading the news (and misinformation) have a lot to do with our attitudes. Sometimes we get the wrong impression of what’s happening in the world.
My rant today was triggered by last week’s protests by thousands of people, mostly parents, who hit the streets to complain about SOGI 123 – the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identification program for schools. Thousands more hit the streets supporting the program. The anti- SOGI bunch say it is counter to religious values and will “groom” children to change gender. Supporters say SOGI helps reduce risky student behaviour, and including it in school codes of ethics, conduct and anti-bullying policies teaches them about values and respecting differences.
I have nothing against protests. Peaceful protests can call attention to things that need fixing. The problem is, protests can get rowdy, and protesters can misinterpret issues.
SOGI was introduced to the B.C. education system in 2016 by the BC Liberals (now BC United). It is supported by the NDP government. It is not mandated curriculum, but each school district has appropriate materials and resources available for schools to participate in the program.
My quibble with the anti -SOGI protestors is why don’t they ask for meetings with education leaders to discuss.
•••
Halloween is the one time people not only welcome weird looking creatures who come knocking on their doors, they give them candy.
Have a safe and happy Halloween.
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