Editorial Story

From the celebrity gossip blogs of Perez Hilton, to the fashion shows led by Tim Gunn on primetime television, the media has obviously embraced the homosexual community of the United States. With equality becoming more and more likely in terms of marriage and unions according to the government, it would likely be inferred that high school students feel the same; open and accepting. Throughout the halls of Eastview High School, however, this feeling of approval and support is not visible. While students may or may not agree with the choices made by others in terms of their sexuality, the narrow-mindedness and intolerance here at Eastview is offensive and intolerable. In a classroom setting, it is commonplace to hear a student say “That’s so gay”, or “No homo”, following a joke or statement. But even small assertions such as these promote hatred and a type of segregation between heterosexual and homosexual students. While it may come across as a joking matter, using a phrase that puts down a person, or a group of people, is wrong in any manner. While most people do not understand the message they are sending by saying such comments, they are nonetheless hurtful and discriminatory towards others, even in our school. Especially in a place that promotes respect and a safe learning environment, these derogatory statements are anything but positive.

Making a change in the way that students use such distasteful words will make a huge impact on the overall quality and feeling of positivity here at Eastview. Students may no longer feel hated or frowned upon due to their sexuality, but instead, they may feel accepted and comfortable. In order to do so, teachers may first begin to set such an example; instead of letting such language go, they need to address it when it happens, much like the way a teacher would if a student began using curse words or profanities. In this alone, students may begin to realize that their choice to use such language is hateful and unacceptable, therefore changing their ways. By only changing one small aspect of the narrow-mindedness located here at Eastview, students may once again be able to feel as if they are part of a strong community of their peers who accept them, regardless of their sexual orientation.