Dear Editor,
Re: Parents: LGBT policy could convert straight teens, News, March 1.
I am coming at this issue threefold, as a Chinese-Canadian, as a teacher and as a parent.
First of all, as a Chinese-Canadian who was born and raised in Richmond, I have often had to defend Chinese immigrants, since people feel comfortable making racist comments around me.
Although I was born here, I still have empathy for their experiences as new immigrants, such as with learning English or how to drive.
However, after reading the antiquated opinions of the group Parents Care, I definitely cannot defend this particular Chinese group.
I felt shock, sadness and anger upon reading their statements about choosing to be gay and their baseless fear of converting heterosexuals.
Secondly, as a teacher, I am in full support of the school district developing a policy to address issues surrounding sexual orientation and gender identity.
I have always discussed LGBT issues with my students and, although I have occasionally been met with resistance based on students’ ethnic or religious backgrounds, I reiterate the importance of loving and accepting everyone and that everyone deserves the same, basic, human rights.
Lastly, as a new mom, I worry about the community my son will be growing up in. I truly hope that the Parents Care group is not as large a group in Richmond as they claim to be. I shudder at the thought of my son going to school with peers who are being taught such intolerance at home.
However, if he is met with these beliefs, I just have to focus on what I will teach him — that everyone deserves to be treated with kindness and respect, regardless of sexual orientation.
This is also why the school board policy is so important, to give students a safe place to be who they are, if they are gay or transgender, especially if they are not being supported at home.
Shelley John
Richmond
