Rainbow in Progress

The article that I have chosen is part of the “Don’t be left behind” article that speaks about the urgent necessity of current events, it explains the benefits and contributions that could be added as citizen, student, and a member of the community. One of the main important things that could be picked up from this would be “Building Informed Opinions” as informed individuals we would be able to comment on the most current issues and have more sensitive approach to current events. The article even used this quote by Margaret Mead to express the necessity of learning these traits.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever does” – Margaret Mead

Another important thing would be being able to engage in conversation about global events and how these current events affect our community in different scales that we aren’t fully aware of. Another good reason would be enhancing employment opportunities that this would enhance possibilities in the job market. Knowing current events puts you in a more current positions that understanding things around you makes you a much better candidate.

The contradictory article that I have found was about, teaching current events in the classroom and when does it become to much to even do, or teach.

The argument revolves on how political a classroom should be and whether teachers should share political viewpoints and personal opinions. The article revolves around an interview with Diana E. Hess and Paul Mc, Avoy. Who converse about the guidelines to teaching political news in the classroom. Hess argues that“Schools, they conclude, are and ought to be political places — but not partisan ones.” Meaning that students should be able to pick either side of the party that the teacher should not form a sort of bias in the classroom. It should be an open safe space to talk about politics and or running campaigns.

kn    Hey guys, it’s been a while! Now, I do not have great news because everything that has been accomplished in the past can be destroyed in a blink of an eye. I found an article that is controversial in terms of people who are against this person’s ideas while others can only see the “good” things he can be able to bring into the position. Donald Trump has announced his nomination for Army Secretary which is sparking fear in people of the LGBTQ community. Mark Green’s beliefs are coming into the light because it is important to know that his beliefs can affect his role in being the army’s secretary and can destroy the work that’s been done to help the LGBTQ community in the army. Mark being in charge can send the message the community that all the hard work can disappear because of his beliefs and rude remark about the LGBTQ community.  

    Ever since Donald Trump has been president, some things have gone downhill and for others, the government is slowly deteriorating because of him. The fact that Donald Trump has nominated Mark Green, a person who is an anti-LGBTQ politician is not only worrying the advocates for gay, lesbian, and transgender rights but is also putting fear in people. This can be controversial because not only are people like advocates trying to let others know how this person’s beliefs can affect his position in the army but there is also people who are defending his name by stating how important his leadership can be and how it can improve the army. The issue will be if Mark Green’s position will affect the army in a positive or negative way, will there be issues with the “Don’t ask , Don’t Tell” Act or will his leadership and experience in the army be more important than the safety of the LGBTQ community in the army.

Hey guys, its Esmeralda! I recently watched a documentary that was released in 2001 which is called, Southern Comfort. This documentary focuses on Robert Eads life which is about a transexual who was dying of ovarian/cervix cancer but could do nothing about it because no doctors or hospitals were willing to help him. When he was first diagnosed with the illness, most doctors would say no and some would be really blunt and specifically say that it would be “an embarrassment for a person like him to be there.” It also had members of his “chosen” family talk about their problems and how they went through a change which was difficult for them and coming out into the world. The documentary is set up during his last year of living which is split up into the four seasons to see how deeply affected he was by the rejection of these doctors/hospitals. Robert was married before and had two boys which we see one of the boys show up in the documentary along with Robert’s parents and also his grandchild. At first his family didn’t really want to believe what he was trying to say in terms of being a transexual because in the end when he changed himself, his parents were devastated especially his mom. He found a special space in the gay community because he spent twenty years living here because of the way he looked and the way he is now. Many things affected him and others especially acceptance from others since they couldn’t understand reasons of their transition into another gender.

This documentary’s audience is intended for those who are unable to understand why transgender people need the same rights as “normal” people have and shouldn’t face discrimination in places like hospitals by denying them service because of who they are. This is intended for people of today that although we and LGBTQ people have the right to get the service they need because hospitals/doctors can’t refuse to help us, it is still shown today how the LGBTQ community is battling fights to get justice because injustices are still occurring. The purpose this documentary is too let us know how far the government was willing to let these things go on by not making any laws to ensure the safety of these people and others that are part of the LGBTQ community. Another point is that it shows how Robert was deeply affected because of his transitioned since no doctor or hospitals were willing to take him because of being transexual. Although it was released in 2001, Robert was born in 1945 and died in 1999 which explains why he was treated certain ways because of the era he lived in. The years in between can explain why doctors/hospitals wouldn’t accept him as a patient because it was when they were deeply discriminated everywhere (military, hospitals, etc) and that this transition of gender and homosexuality were seen as a “disease.”

This documentary includes transgender people and not much about lesbians, gays, or bisexuals. The documentary was based on Robert and his “chosen” family about being the opposite sex and their transitioning. There were no documents or experts being used except Robert being presented at a seminar about the sex transition and letting others know about what they went through and how it should change. Their message was also letting them know that if not enough people step up and change, there will be more people like Robert who will die eventually because of being rejected by doctors/hospitals for being who they are. Robert as evidence can be reliable because we know that a human being has died for not getting the service they needed although he could’ve gotten more time to live if doctors weren’t so uptight about sex discrimination. I think this wouldn’t be a good resource for high school students because although it could be viewed by anyone, it is more entitled for college students because the older they are, they could understand the documentary more thoroughly and be able to change things in the world or have an impact on the society about this.

Hey guys, it’s Esme and I just interviewed someone who would like to remain anonymous and I would like to respect their wishes as much as I would like for you guys to respect with our decision as well! Here it is:

Me: Hello! I was wondering if I can interview you about LGBTQ in politics.

Individual: Hi! No problem, hopefully I can help.

Me: Alright! Let’s start with what is going on in the political world that is affecting the LGBTQ community.

Individual: There are many things going on. At first I expected the President to have respect against minorities like our LGBTQ community. I was shocked that as soon as Jeff Sessions came in, the Trump administration decided to withdraw it’s help for fighting LGBTQ injustices, for example the transgender bathroom issues. I was completely and I still am mortified for these young adults and their safety wherever they go because it’s very common to hear that they go through some serious bullying because of who they are.

Me: Do you think that we can be able to overcome this issue?

Individual: I’m not sure anymore because it feels like if we are going backwards and not forward. This is not about the economy, this is about human rights and being to respect every human being and having some dignity to respect their wishes. If our President is showing acceptance to disrespect transgender people then the rest o the population will think that it is okay to offend them as well. I would like to have some more peace in our world than see more suffering. The person in the presidency is not doing a great job with standing with our LGBTQ community which is frightening.

Me: Do you think this issue will become more controversial in the future?

Individual: I would want to say no because I have lived in an era in which it was illegal to marry someone from your own kind. I want to think positive about this but it will be much harder now fighting for our rights than before.

Me: Have you noticed anything different lately?

Individual: The fact that we have an ignorant president makes me think that people are now forming larger groups of “togetherness” to fight off discrimination against anything. It is expected that hatred against minority groups will increase as far as this president makes an excuse to do so. There are many lives at risk and the fact that young children who are considered transgender will have to live in fear is terrorizing for anyone but mostly for parents. I also would like to say that we are not alone and we will continue to fight this until we gain more rights for our community because we are human beings, and we want to strive for a better future for everyone especially for our LGBTQ community!

Okay, that will be all! thank you so much!

Thank you and hopefully that helps!

  (Person would like to remain anonymous)

Interview taken place 3/10/17 at 9:54am

For this particular assignment I decided to interview my friend Jasmin who is a strong LGBTQ allie I think the people that support the greater cause are also as important as the people being part of the movement, seemingly because, It helps other people like family and friends as such.

Who are you and what is your stand on the LGBTQ community?

My name is Jasmin I am 22 a Junior at Cal State University Northridge. I take a strong stand in the LGBTQ community simply because I have grown around people different than me. My sister and brother both identify with the Queer community which I do not. I have a better clear understanding of what it is and what we have to do to help the people around us live the most fulfilling life that they can.

Why do you feel like you have to advocate for the LGBTQ community?

They are just like us. Human Beings that deserve everything in life no one should be restricted from being happy.

How do you feel when your brother wears female clothing in a public space?

I have an utmost respect for my brother to be able to do that simply because I wouldn’t he is a confident reassured human being that it makes me want to be like he’s my brother and I love him and we are the same.

Does he ever receive negative reactions?

All the time but that has never stopped him from being who he is, i think it empowers him to be himself. I let people be mad and confused at his actions. That’s a key response when someone doesn’t understand something. It’s clear confusion. I get that. I just hope people wouldn’t be so violent.

Has he ever been physically attacked?

Never, I hope not.

How are you feeling today in this overpowering media world we live in?

A lot of people don’t realize that the media is a way for people to escape their everyday lives. They escape their reality and hop into alternative universes. They find comfort knowing that their other people like them. Maybe not next door but they are in existent and they are not the only ones living like this. It’s not even with social media in general people that use dating apps to find significant others.

How do you feel about Disney’s news about having queer inclusion?

I was jumping of my chair when i heard that on the news the other day I feel like it’s things like this that make us as a country take a big giant step forward. Disney is being known for making as many people be included form race and ethnicity which is absolutely important. As a child not being able to identify as a disney princess was a bit unsatisfying. It wasn't as pleasant as my peers who could possibly be any princess that they wanted to. Thanks to their fair skin and light colored eyes. IMAGINE having someone who anybody can relate too on a more personal scale. That is enormously important and hands down best news i have heard from the disney corporation on gender inclusivity. Good job Disney.

Did you hear about the backlash towards disney from unapproving moms?

No I did not, but why am I not surprised that these conservative moms would think this way. I really in all honesty am grateful for all the work they are doing regardless about what these moms are saying it’s sort of irrelevant to the bigger picture. If Disney wants to be inclusive they should really include everybody not just the desireable people. People that are really not aware of what’s going on should focus on worst things if they really cared about anything that is.

How do you feel about the Male makeup gurus that have been popping up on social media, youtube, etc.

I am totally for them. I understand why people wouldn’t be all in it’s not seen as normal for males to parade around wearing makeup. But they are great they are just being who they want to be which is the most important thing. The beauty community generally dominated by girls, it's important to have variety, I think it's also a good form of self expression.The acceptance coming from these girls is also beautiful because they are treating these boys for their skills not so much what they have in their pants. Most of them are better at doing their makeup than I am of course im going to appreciate it.

Final comments

Hey guys, it’s Esme and I have a political event that should be brought to attention!

The article, Trump fears come true for LGBTQ: Column written by Josh Rivera in the USA TODAY opinion talks about how the Trump administration planted a sense of fear in the world especially for the LGBTQ community. It is now known that the Trump Administration has made the departments of justice and education to withdrawn the “policy and guidance” official. Last year which was the Obama’s Administration last year, managed to get approve and protect the rights of transgender children in which many from across the world has waited to get these rights approve and have LGBTQ children, teens, and adults voices to be heard and be recognized. The Trump administration and now that Jeff Sessions is now part of it, had said that these rights belong to the states because it should be a state’s issue and not a federal one. It has drastically sparked fear in many families and for parents like Amber and Adam, they have this fear for their transgender son. Before the Obama Administration legalized rights to protect transgender kids, their son was in a bad shape due to the amount of anxiety he had whenever he had to use a bathroom. Once Obama stated the rights, situations like these probably got better and for this boy, his situation made his performance in school higher than before.

    I believe that this situation shouldn’t be happening again because it has already been stated that these rights make those transgender kids feel safe and now that the Trump Administration has made drastic changes, it feels like we are not going forward as a country. This article has put in an example that can happen in many families across the globe and although, I may not know what it means in statistics, I believe that after this change, transgender kids and teens will gain more anxiety than they already have and have a sense of fear that will grow into a severe depression. The writer of this article included this family as an example that parents have fears for their children’s safety in schools due to the transgender bathrooms not being available anymore. It is not just a right for the community, it has to do more with who they are and being able to be yourself and not hiding behind someone that isn’t you. Now that Jeff Sessions has said about it being a state’s rights and Betsy DeVos being Secretary of Education, they are all about what the public feels and how to accommodate the public but if the public is mostly agreeing with the Trump Administration, where will the rest who don’t agree with him will go.

Hello everyone! 

So recently I’m sure you all have heard about the transgender restroom issues lately. It’s gotten farther than ethics and morals, its also brought politics into this issue. As I was browsing through the latest news on this issue I came across a blog titled Texas Values, so you could imagine what their stance was on the whole restroom/locker room/ dressing room issue.The article was titled “SIX ESSENTIAL FACTS ABOUT SENATE BILL 6 (TEXAS PRIVACY ACT”). The main thing that I got from this article was the fact that the author is all for the Texas Privacy Act although some of the points it proves aren’t as strong.You open up the link and the first thing you see is the picture I have shown on this post.

 “It’s common sense, men shouldn’t be in locker rooms with little girls.” Because all trans-gendered people are pedophiles??? (I’m calling B.S). So right off the bat, I knew this post was going to be one I did not agree with what so ever. There are point in this post that are very ignorant and make no sense in the first place, for example: “ SB 6 will help a growing number of persons who have felt threatened or have been abused in restrooms and changing facilities as a result of dangerous bathroom policies.” Meaning that the people who identify with the gender on their birth certificate can feel uncomfortable with a trans gendered person in the restroom, dressing room etc. But think about it, what about the people who are transgender? Do you not think that they feel uncomfortable not being able to use the bathroom of which gender they identify with? If anything they feel just as threatened in the restroom as any other person who isn’t trans might feel. This statement is a total contradiction, “ SB 6 empowers individuals. All citizens may file a written complaint with the Attorney General under SB 6 when they feel their privacy and dignity is being violated in a restroom or changing area, and the AG’s office has the power to investigate those complaints and sue entities which violate women’s and children’s rights” The author mentions. ALL CITIZENS MAY FILE A COMPLAINT. ALL, WHICH INCLUDES THE TRANS GENDERED INDIVIDUALS AS WELL. This blog post just got me all riled up! Tell me what you all think, have you even felt uncomfortable in a restroom with a transgender person? Does it matter? Or if you are transgender, are there times when you feel uncomfortable?

 Until next time, 

The relevant information discussed was that Beauty and the Beast would have a moment for the LGBTQ community in which one of the characters of the storyline Gaston has a dual identity crisis not knowing who he really is. I think simply mentioning things like this is important simply because it strengthened the article and it’s overall facts.

My focus on the blog is entertainment , and keeping up with the everyday lifestyle of the LGBTQ community. This past week has been exceptionally profound in relating to Disney animation studios. Disney XD a disney channel broadcasted what happened to be a kiss between a gay couple. Many on the moms on social media went ballistic. A media company supposedly targeted for many kids under age are forced to watch something that may not have been explained by their parents.

One parent tweeted

“CHURCH we need to get our act together, these Illuminati slash New World Order liberals are coming at us with all”

Disney has been pushed over repeatedly to represent the gay community within its productions. According to a representative anything is up for grabs and can potentially be possible.

I personally think that within the argumentative article that parents are being too harsh on the LGBTQ community. Seeing as how it was just a little snippet. The article used quoted resources and video links to the actual show. I think that’s always important when presenting an argument because their is always a source to back up. Also the words used in the article related a lot to the political atmosphere of the time relating to liberals and conservatives. It actually truly defines those words in a different context and I think that's important because you get a different idea on the source of information. The author seems to have also intertwined other news to the relating source that have certain things in common simply because it provides a stronger push against this being okay and obviously in neither sense poisoning the minds of America’s children.

In class we discussed what makes a good blog. What can catch the reader's attention and hopeful promote a successful blog. My topic in the blog is the media. As most readers know the media is ever changing. There's always something different to discuss regarding the media. I think that it’s important to let people know about the things happening regarding the media. Usually we surf the internet to find something relatable to our lives. When we have a problem we google it and find someone similar to us.The media could be important and play a big role as well because it can be a way to show that people are going through the same problems. Reactions can also be important like reacting to fashion runways, lifestyle choices relevant media news. Anything is possible like for example Domo and Chrissy are two bloggers they are lesbians and they are having kids and it's understandable how many woman have gone through this and it isn't particularly news but not every female documents and makes it seem like it's an everyday thing it's out of the norms and that’s important for other people to see that happiness can literally be anything. Anything that a heterosexual can do so can a LGBTQ couple can.

The thing that makes blogs interesting is that they are 100% truthful, and probably honest. Most people researching for any idea for some part does not want to be lied too. A reliable post is what grabs attention. Along with personal comments from the author, receiving a personal story or any kind of point of view to the reader is important, because you never know you might cover an answer that they were looking for. Making a blog as current and posting regularly also catches the attention of the reader making regular visits to the blog. Realizing your audience also attracts readers because people will be there for a purpose not just because they casually stumbled upon it and think it’s the most relatable post. I think also having like separate outlets linked to the posts is important because it shows that we have good sources that we can relate too.

Hey everyone! My purpose for this blog is to let you all know about the events involving the LGBTQ community as well as some journalism! I want to let you all know about the latest things that have taken place or are taking place around the world as well as the smaller community here in California. One thing that I would like to happen is discussing my opinion on these issues or events around us. One thing that I think will be helpful is also hearing the opinions of any of you who read this ha! To discuss these events will give us all a better understanding of the world.

           One thing that could make this blog more interesting is seeing pictures that are relevant to the topic I’m discussing, or maybe some GIF’s because honestly who doesn’t love themselves some GIF’s. I want this blog to be helpful for the readers so if there is a suggestion you would like to give that would be great. I want questions to be asked if I don’t clarify enough or my main goal is hopefully well thought out discussions will take place and we get to interact with our readers! How cool would that be? Here’s one thing that really pushed my buttons. Recently my best friend has been taking the bus and at the bus stop there is a gay guy there who dresses feminine. What made me mad was the fact that the bus driver would leave this poor guy and not let him ride on the bus! This is a serious problem that has really made both her and I mad. No one should be treated like that, it’s wrong. If he seen the guy was the only one at the bus stop he wouldn’t stop! This act of discrimination is something that shouldn’t be driving, it’s like you are hardly even interacting with the person, he’s paying for his ride so what’s the big deal?!

           Has anything like this ever happened to you or someone you know? Let me know, and I will let you all know what happens to the gut on the bus.

                                               Until next time,

Just like Spiderman said in Captain America: Civil War, “Hey everyone”! So recently I was reading around about LGBTQ in our classrooms, specifically the junior high and high school classroom. Whether you are in junior high, high school, or maybe just graduated you know that in your classrooms the issues of the LGBTQ community were rarely mentioned or maybe not even mentioned at all! Shocker, right?? Why shouldn’t all students know about the history and issues of people who are LGBTQ? While I was browsing the endless possibilities for articles, I came across a PDF written by the GLSEN. For those of you who aren’t familiar with GLSEN, they are an organization that’s meant to make schools safe for 6-12th graders. They even do cool events for LGBTQ kids and their allies, I’ve been to this cool event called MOP, Models of Pride. We did all sorts of workshops for LGBTQ+ and allies, not to mention dinner and an awesome dance after! If you’re a part of the LGBTQ community or an ally I highly recommend looking them up. But that’s beside the point. In the article the authors mention how schools don’t really put LGBTQ into their curriculums, whether that be health, history, or other subjects. The authors mention how including un bias curriculums into classes that involve LGBTQ issues. According to the authors, “For LGBT students, attending a school with inclusive curriculum is related to less-hostile school experiences and increased feelings of connectedness to the school community”. This means that adding these lessons will open a more positive outlook into the LGBTQ community, not only will the LGBTQ students feel more welcomed but the students who don’t identify with the queer community will also be able to become more open minded and understanding of the issues and history of the LGBTQ people. The GLSEN article mentions how the slightest things in a curriculum can change for the better. For example, they mention the fact that in history they could teach about the civil rights leader Byard Rustin, who was an activist for gay rights. In addition to this they can mention things such as the laws that made it illegal to be gay, and all the riots and police harassment the LGBTQ people got back then. Things like this can really make a difference in kids in these junior high and high school levels. It can open doors to make the LGBTQ community feel more included and open the minds of people who might not be able to understand the LGBTQ community. Not to mention… history is history… people are people, math is math, social studies is social studies and it should involve all students, even the LGBTQ ones. Including more LGBTQ elements will make all the difference.

Until next time, 

Adri(:

The LGBTQ is noted as a minority group that needs to be learned about so people in general feel comfortable in learning about something that isn't too new it is something that has happened. The curriculum would be based in gay rights movement throughout history, current events would also part of discussion associating no fear simply protection to those who adhere. I believe the importance to that is rather critical because the youth need to realize the importance of the meaning behind a further analyzation of the modern right’s civil movement. Keeping them educated would make them more well rounded individuals

The way that we were brought up and taught have influenced the way we grow and learn to perceive things. LGBTQ rights have been around for centuries. Only the non informed people seem to rebel and disagree with a community that does no harm. The fact that as a community we have to learn others is very important. The article that I used was a more informative website about the school’s within the LAUSD system. They have failed in the past to promote LGBT community. Monica Garcia the LAUSD representative that represents district 2 spoke about more inclusivity on coming out day. A key date in the LGBT community that represents comfort in an individual. She spoke about this hoping that it would stop harassment and bullying on campus grounds and within all the schools within the district

The PDF was really short the fact that as a report made to the entire district was super vague. It didn't really demonstrate the urgent necessity that this is. The district shouldn't wait no longer to include students in the LGBT community.

As educated students I feel like it’s important to recognize the community within our own by letting our youth understand what it means to be any of the above acronyms, The California State board of educators voted on making the LGBTQ community part of the school curriculum. Middle school and high school  will both learn about gay rights in a historic, and scientific perspective.

Hey Guys! Its Esmeralda and I have an article that might be interesting to some of you! This article talks about how teachers and staff are working together to make children be more familiar with those who are part of the LGBTQ families. It is important for children to know that despite being different everyone should be treated equally. Because of my political role in this blog, I think this article reflects the idea of what schools and teachers should work on and especially because some children come from LGBTQ families, they go through many difficult times from not being to able to receive healthcare to going through unemployment because of who you are. Teachers and staff have the ability to make children’s minds grow and furthering their teaching by listing books to read about LGBTQ families and being able to depict the readings in a positive way. Including literature works and having teachers read these books to them or assigning them as projects is helping our education system by letting these kids think that any family that is either heterosexual or homosexual or etc is okay and should not be treated with disrespect. The article states important facts about this inclusion in our education and because living in a world where we are still scared of being who we are, teachers can start making a difference in children live by being more knowledgable about this community. From a political stand in this blog, I personally think this article should be read because it is really important to educate the next generation about these things and even now it may seem that instead of moving forward with LGBTQ rights we are maybe going backwards which can mean that some of the hard work that many went through to get some rights established can vanish.

Hello to everyone queer or not! All are welcome, because why shouldn't everyone be? I’m Adri, and I’ll be running this blog along with my friends Esmeralda, and Jenny. Our mission is to keep you up to date on the latest queer fashion, politics involving queer issues, as well as events or journalism including the LGBTQ+ community. We believe that everyone should know about the queer community and understand the things that LGBTQ people deal with. It’s important! It’s not just queer people issues, it’s everyone's issues as the human race to know about one another. 

We all have our reasons as to why the queer community is important for us. If I’m being honest, the main reason I started becoming interested in the queer community is when I found out my uncle is gay. He is what opened my eyes to the LGBTQ community and the struggles they face as well as their stories. As for Esmeralda, she believes that this is an important issue because people should know about the LGBTQ movement and how it isn’t as weak as it was before.  People both queer and not are standing up for LGBTQ rights now more than ever. As for Jenny, she also knows people who identify as LGBTQ and they are people who mean a lot to us. We plan to keep up with issues as well as entertainment and anything else related to the queer community! Stay tuned!

Until next time, 

     Adri, Esmeralda, & Jenny