On equality and inclusion

[Jaye Richards]

I’ve often used my own blog to write about my thoughts on equality and inclusion and in particular, homophobia in schools and the real damage to so many lives it causes. Here is a collection of these posts, grouped together in one page.

Why do I write about these issues ? well, I guess for many reasons, most of which are highly personal. My own experiences in life have left me with a real sense of sadness at the prejudice and injustice which despite changing attitudes and legislation, remains, at least in part, in many parts of our society, including, I’m sad to say, schools. Many LGBT teachers are not comfortable with ‘coming out’ for entirely understandable reasons. This is a shame because young people coming to terms with their own sexuality, often in the face of ridicule and often real hostility in schools need role-models. Challenging homophobic remarks is something many teachers just won’t do and this is a shame. The little snide remarks, the derogatory use of the word ‘gay’ and the playground catcalls all build up into an overwhelming barrage of negativity for young LGBT people in schools and this really needs to change.

These posts expand on my own views and hopes….

A piece I wrote for the Times Educational Supplement (Scotland) in 2003

http://mimanifesto.wordpress.com/2008/03/20/equal-under-the-law-but-maybe-not-so-equal-in-schools/

On how education can help to change attitudes….

http://mimanifesto.wordpress.com/2008/05/30/how-education-really-can-make-a-difference/



On Scotland taking a lead….

http://mimanifesto.wordpress.com/2008/08/23/scotland-the-braveand-the-pragmatic/



In memory of some….

http://mimanifesto.wordpress.com/2008/11/11/remember-them/



What we can do….

http://mimanifesto.wordpress.com/2009/04/04/self-evaluation-a-wider-purpose/



On brave and courageous action by individuals showing real leadership

http://mimanifesto.wordpress.com/2009/06/07/political-integrity-its-not-all-bad-news-if-we-look-back/

http://mimanifesto.wordpress.com/2009/07/15/on-society-inclusion-and-evolving-attitudes/



If a journey through these posts makes anyone think and reflect upon circumstances and situations and their own experiences, that would be great. Our society is getting better, but there’s still a way to go yet. Schools too need to grasp the reality that is inequality and act. Teachers must be the change agents….who else is able to influence future society as much ?

Edit this entry.