Blog#10

 After reading the Rhode Island department of education and watching the video they, she, he: easy as ABC I think both said very good things about how we can create a welcoming space for students that are gender non-conforming I think starting these conversations early, like in kindergarten, helps everyone learn to respect each other. It’s not just helpful for trans or gender nonconforming students but it also teach other how to be respectful towards others from a very young age

The reading says, “All students need a safe and supportive school environment to progress academically and developmentally.” As a genderfluid person I agree with this. When schools respect our names and pronouns, it helps us feel more comfortable, respected and feel like where in a safe space so we can focus on learning. It also says that students don’t need to go through medical steps to be seen and respected. I think that’s really important because not everyone is ready or is able to take those steps. The reading also talks about privacy. It says that staff shouldn’t tell other people about a student’s gender identity unless the student says it’s okay. I think that’s really important too. Not everyone is out to their families or classmates, and it can be unsafe if people are told without permission.

The teacher, who goes by Key, shared how they feel about pronouns. They said, “They makes me feel good inside. It makes my heart feel good. It makes my mind feel good. It makes my body feel good.” I think that’s a clear way to explain why the right pronouns matter. It’s not just about words it’s about feeling okay in your own skin and that it isn’t based on others opinion about you but what you think, and it only matters how they make you feel not how others feels towards your pronouns. What I also liked is how the video showed kids using different pronouns, and it made it normal. One part I really agreed with is when Key said, “If you forget someone’s pronouns... you can call them by their name.” That’s simple and respectful. I think schools should teach that more often.