Things parents can do

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   I think it is important to bring up our kids in a gay-positive environment. I invite others to add their ideas. Here are some of the things I do with my kids:

1. Face and deal with our own homophobia (same for racism, classism, etc.). Societies not long ago considered homosexuality a crime, some still do. The fears that this legacy instills in us run deep and are complex to deal with.  Admitting you have homophobic and wanting to change this is part of the solution, being proud of it is not.

2. De mystify and give a face to homosexuality: e.g. along with all the other information you tell your kids about the world, draw their attention to gay people in the world of politics and other public spheres; or if you have friends or co-workers, teachers or relatives who are gay, share this information with your kids. No need to make a big deal about it. It is just another bit of information.

3. Draw you kids attention to gay issues and history.

4. Watch Will & Grace or other gay positive films or tv shows.

Any other ideas?

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donnietheg Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Newbie Joined: Mar 10 2008 Online Status: Offline Posts: 1	Quote Reply Topic: Things parents can do Posted: Mar 10 2008 at 8:18pm
	I think it is important to bring up our kids in a gay-positive environment. I invite others to add their ideas. Here are some of the things I do with my kids: 1. Face and deal with our own homophobia (same for racism, classism, etc.). Societies not long ago considered homosexuality a crime, some still do. The fears that this legacy instills in us run deep and are complex to deal with. Admitting you have homophobic and wanting to change this is part of the solution, being proud of it is not. 2. De mystify and give a face to homosexuality: e.g. along with all the other information you tell your kids about the world, draw their attention to gay people in the world of politics and other public spheres; or if you have friends or co-workers, teachers or relatives who are gay, share this information with your kids. No need to make a big deal about it. It is just another bit of information. 3. Draw you kids attention to gay issues and history. 4. Watch Will & Grace or other gay positive films or tv shows. Any other ideas?