By Sanjukta Das Bhowmick
Sexuality isn’t given, people have different sexual orientations and it is high time that we start respecting that. But given the current scenario, with Section 377 still in action, homosexuality is frowned upon by many. In regard to this, homophobia has emerged as a major concern.
Homophobia, in a very basic manner is discrimination and negative attitude shown towards people who claim to be homosexuals or their sexual orientation differs from heterosexual, including but not limited to, bisexuality, lesbian, transgender, gay.
When a person shows discrimination in any form, be it abusive, passive aggressive or downright violent, just based on the fact that the other person is a homosexual or from the LGBTQIA community, then that is homophobia.
Homophobia exists in our society because of the regressive yet still prevalent notion that declares homosexuality a sin and something immoral. However, homophobia is not just experienced by just adults, even kids who are yet unaware of all this prejudice, are subject to it.
Their teachers and peers only, because of the things propagated in society, create a hostile environment for them.
We at ED, went around, asking few questions to get a grasp on what people thought of it.
What do you think of Homophobia in classrooms? How far-reaching are its effects? Have you ever faced it?
I was unfortunately in a school where one particular teacher used to make fun of men who were effeminate and his sexuality was questioned incessantly. I think it can incite homophobic tendencies in a large number of students.
So have you seen how in schools we only have literature and learning that’s heteronormative only?
I currently teach in a women’s college and I feel women are more receptive and tolerant. Personally, I haven’t faced homophobia in classrooms though I can sense a lot of curiosity among my colleagues.
Although we as individuals try to show that we don’t accept these strict gender demarcations yet we are still not very accommodating towards LGBTQs who are outside the heteronormative structure.
All this bullying and repression can leave deep mental scars in his formative years which can also lead to loss of confidence. I have personally never faced it but have seen students in my classroom facing it.
Homophobia is real and the situation is far from improving. Do your bit folks and battle homophobia wherever you come across it.
Design Credits: Nadiminti Sarvani
Other Recommendations:
http://edtimes.in/2014/02/legal-homosexuality-disease/
