Allan Jones letter with response

A letter in response to a letter received by Allan Jones-Principal of West Park School Written by Corey Wall January 26, 2012 First of all I understand that this must be a difficult and tumultuous time for the staff of West Park School. A “conversation” about this topic evokes many opinions, feelings, and religious beliefs. It’s no wonder our own Prime Minister is reluctant to reopen discussions within parliament about same sex marriages. This strain must be difficult in a work place that already has many challenges. Being a teacher is not an easy job. I have a great admiration for those who have trained and studied to become teachers of my children, essentially guiding them to be productive members of our communities, in an ever changing society.

As I have reviewed this “Ally Card” I am impressed with a number of positive comments yet am confused and offended by its openness in use of terms that describe intimate sexual orientation(s). These words are used today-by the majority-in denotation and have little or no other connotative meanings. These words are without a doubt intended for a mature readerone that is aware and mature in their understanding of sex. Review these terms and their meanings.

Gay: a homosexual male Lesbian: of or relating to homosexuality between females Bisexual: possessing characters of both sexes: to, or characterized by a tendency to direct sexual desire toward both sexes.

Transgender: of, relating to, or being a person (as a transsexual or transvestite) who identifies with or expresses a gender identity that differs from the one which corresponds to the person's sex at birth.

Intersex: an individual that is intermediate in sexual characters between a normal male and a normal female Queer: often disparaging: HOMOSEXUAL (2)sometimes offensive: GAY Over the past decade of being a funeral director I have become sensitive and respectful in my use of terms related to Death and Dying. Many people are offended by the topic and/or the use of the terms like: Murder, Suicide, Dead, Funeral, Coffin…

Although death and dying are inevitable facts-every human will experience it-I still must be sensitive to those who are fearful of death, or their end of life thoughts, choices and beliefs.

Although it is my viewpoint that everyone should become comfortable with death and dying I am fully aware that I do not further my good intentions by “inappropriate” use of these terms (or my daily actions or conduct). To further my agenda its best I be an example-a person of action and of good character. I do not need a badge, sign or “card” to facilitate this.

I believe this “Ally Card” to be a form of “soft” activism. It has a clear underlying agenda. There are many examples of “soft” activism within our schools. Many are identified by small print, “sponsored by”, “paid for by”; or the incorporation of logos, colors, or trademarks. It is important to recognize and know if these things appropriate for our schools.

Let me be clear, it is with great concern that a “card” with this language is/has been posted in a school of Grade 4, 5 and 6’s. I think I have been as objective as possible, as it is my endeavor as well to eliminate all forms of oppression.

I hereby call upon the citizens of our community, province and country to support me in my request to make it clear: the use of these terms (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, two-spirit, intersex, queer) is inappropriate for our public schools until which time the children are mature enough to understand sex education and gender identities.