STORY OF THE WEEK

Outing Has Harmed LGBTQ+ People for Generations – Schools Should Not Adopt This Dangerous Legacy

There is a lot of discussion online right now about a parent's right to know their child's gender identity or sexuality. This is a dangerous view for parents, teachers and legislators to adopt. What about the rights of the child?

Contrary to some opinions, children are autonomous beings who deserve our respect and dignity. Forcing anyone to come out as LGBTQIA+, including children, is inherently wrong, and could in fact threaten the child's safety if their family deem this to be unacceptable.

Gay Times asks the question: "Do we fear that our children might be lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans? [..] is it because we view being LGBTQ+ as lesser than?" 

The Albert Kennedy Trust found that half of LGBTQIA+ young people fear that expressing their identity to family members would lead to them being evicted. This is most acute for trans young people who are three times more likely to not be close with their immediate family.

Imagine grappling with your sexuality or gender identity as a young person while living amongst homophobia and transphobia. School should ideally be a neutral space of safety and acceptance.

Coming out should never be rushed or forced. If your child hasn't come out to you yet, consider why that might be. Practice being a vocal ally, or simply give them more time.

IN OTHER NEWS

Two Trans Women and Gay Man Targeted in Suspected ‘Anti-LGBTQ Arson Attack’ in East London

In a suspected hate crime, the home of two trans people and a gay man was intentionally set on fire last Friday in Whitechapel. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported at this time, despite no fire alarms being triggered in the residence. A fundraiser is being run, shared by Munroe Bergdorf, to support the residents. Munroe stated: "This ongoing environment of transphobic hate perpetuated by the UK government and media is putting lives on the line."

Senior Officials Quit UK’s So-Called Equalities Watchdog Over Alleged Transphobia

Seven senior officials have reportedly stepped down from the UK’s Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), and more resignations are expected to come. The purpose of the EHRC is to "monitor and enforce equality and non-discrimination laws" and its members are appointed by the government. However, sources from the inside explain that the direction they are going in is dangerous, such as helping exclude trans people from same-sex spaces. Many former staff members do not want to be a part of this and cannot support "gender-critical bosses."  The EHRC vehemently reject claims of resignations due to transphobia, or any anti-trans sentiment within the organisation. They claim to have "repeatedly championed the rights of trans people."

A Person Died While Homeless Every 6.5 Hours in the UK Last Year

Community-driven social justice museum, The Museum of Homelessness, has found that 4,000 people have died while homeless in the UK since 2019. Last year, 1,313 people died which represented an increase from 2021. MOH director Matt Turtle warns that the figures are likely to be higher in reality and called out government action which he brands "misguided" due to “a toxic cocktail of cuts, criminalisation and crackdowns."

Greece Makes Hundreds of Beaches Wheelchair-friendly

The Greek government have announced plans to make 287 beaches across Greece wheelchair–accessible. As well as installing the Seatrac system, which offers unassisted sea access to wheelchair users, they are introducing other accessible facilities such as parking, bathrooms and changing rooms and ramps. 147 beaches in the country have already been made more accessible as part of the 15-million-euro project.

WORK SPHERE

8 Ways Companies Can Go Green and Promote a Sustainable Future this Earth Day

Businesses can be sustainable too! With Earth Day approaching on Saturday, it's time for companies to reflect on their relationship with the planet and consider the changes they can make to operate more sustainably. The COVID-19 lockdowns have brought about a greater appreciation for nature, and it's crucial that businesses, as well as individuals, take advantage of this opportunity to make a positive impact.

Our Finance and Operations Lead Ligia has shared her insights into sustainable business practices.

Iowa State Senate Votes to Allow Children to Work Longer Hours and Serve Alcohol

In an apparent attempt to combat labour shortages, the Iowa state senate voted to allow children under 16-years-old to work extended hours, rising from four hours to six. It will also allow children under the legal drinking age to serve alcohol with their parents' permission and work in previously prohibited industries. The Republicans are framing it as “providing our youth an opportunity to earn and learn” but labour unions have held protests against the bill.

Overconfidence Dictates Who Gets ‘Top Jobs’ and Research Shows Men Benefit More Than Women

Recent research shows that men are 19% more likely than women to "to self-assess their abilities higher than they actually are." This research found that the trend markers kick in as early as adolescence and can impact your future career outcomes. Participants were measured on their overconfidence level at ages five, ten and sixteen. Those rated most overconfident were more likely to be in top jobs by the age of 42 - predominantly men. From their findings, they recommend that employers take measures to give regular feedback to women and encourage them to push for promotions they might not otherwise have considered. They emphasise that the onus should not be put on women to 'get over it', but on the system to change.