I had a bit of a rough May. I was put in an awkward situation where my success at school was reliant on getting a pass from someone who could only be described as sexist, homophobic, Islamophobic, and just an all around not really great person. What made it even more awkward is the fact that she liked me, and was therefore nice to me. So I had to be around this person every day who would spew what I could only describe as disgusting things, and couldn't do anything about it or else I'd fail. Finally, on my last day, I was able to speak up a bit, which was a fantastic feeling.
Today, in one of my classes, a fellow classmate started saying very similar homophobic things. I could feel the tension, and I knew that what he was saying directly affected a fellow classmate. I couldn't hold in what I was thinking or feeling anymore, and very reasonably questioned this classmate. As soon as I started, other classmates started to object to what he was saying as well. Afterwards, several came up to me and thanked me for saying something, and said that it gave them courage to say what they wanted to say as well.
It made my heart smile to hear other people standing up for the rights of others and to know that sometimes all it takes is one voice to break the silence.
Friday, April 5, 2013
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Attitudes are contagious. Are yours worth catching? - Dennis and Wendy Mannering
One of my teachers won an award for her amazingly contagious and inspirational work. It made my heart smile to see her being recognized for her work. I can't think of anyone more deserving.
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