By Lucy Caulkett-
Protesters demonstrating against the teaching of LGBT lessons need to inquire about the details of such lessons before they continue.
The uproar against proposals to teach LGBT lessons n school has reached fever pitch, with demonstrators running into serious arguments and clashes with those who are actively in support with the proposals. One thing these demonstrators have not yet considered is how far the proposed lessons go depends on what will be taught in those lessons. Schools that want to teach about the right for gay pupils to be treated equally and not discriminated against should not be subjected to never ending protests about this.
If the schools intend to impose a doctrine that forces all students to consider a gay lifestyle as one that should be accepted by all pupils, this will be against the religious rights of Christians and Muslim parents who have different beliefs. Their right to differ in opinion is not one they can be denied. The idea of teaching tolerance of different types of people to school pupils is in itself positive, until it crosses the line of infringing the rights of some students to to stick their view of man and woman relationship.
Parents and pupils protesting plans for LGBT lessons to be taught in schools need to enter discussions with the authorities , not behave in any criminal or aggressive way. Reports of a “number of criminal offences” that have taken place near the school in Dennis Road, Moseley is unacceptable. Violent protests like these can send the wrong message to LGBT pupils that they are not wanted because they are lesser individuals than heterosexual people.Inclusion, being a necessary part of any respectable society should not be trampled over.
Some protesters reportedly demonstrated against those protesting to stop LGBT lessons and were reportedly egged, after hanging up signs and placards on the school’s gate, some of which read “love is the answer”. The police force is also investigating malicious communications following an allegation by headteacher Sarah Hewitt-Clarkson who has been been sent threatening messages in the wake of the protests.
The city council has been so disturbed by the protests that they are looking into using a public space protection order to move demonstrations away from the school. Councillor Ian Ward, the leader of the local authority, said: “It’s one thing for parents to ask questions about elements of a school curriculum.
“It’s quite another for others to pounce on the situation as an excuse to peddle hatred and misinformation.” Hundreds of students have been withdrawn from lessons by the parents, after counting the numbers of students going onto the premises.
The West Midlands police and crime commissioner, David Jamieson, said: “Teachers should be free to get on with teaching a full curriculum, that highlights and explains Britain’s full diversity without fear of protests or threats. All forms of equality are equally important.
“As a former headteacher, I understand full well that schools need to work with parents and would encourage productive dialogue to continue.
“I must emphasise though that protests and threats have no place outside of the school gates and where there is evidence of criminality the police will be investigating thoroughly.”