In July the Malta Gay Rights Movement (MGRM) donated several copies of 14 publications to the Education Ministry, focusing on different forms of families and same-sex relationships.
These included three publications on Trans children and another three about coming out, as well as audiovisual material for teachers. At the time it was said that these books would be distributed in State schools.
However, recently the minister expressed that the ministry will not be distributing these books as they are ‘a drop in the ocean’ compared to the total student population.
What the minister failed to mention was that by distributing these books children who feel they are different would still feel like they belong, and not feel excluded by society.
Although those who are forming part of the Facebook group ‘Parents and teachers against gender indoctrination of our children in schools’ have the right to express their opinion they shouldn’t limit others.
By distributing these books not only children would feel integrated but we would be moving forward towards a society were bullying, discrimination and prejudice would be almost diminished, as we would be teaching our children about tolerance and respect. The distribution of these books would help not only children who are Trans or have a different sexual orientation but it would also teach other children and even parents that there are different families out there.
We need to teach our children that even though there might be families that are made up of same sex parents, they are still normal families.
LGBTI+ Gozo emphasises that if the books aren’t distributed they should at least be available in school libraries. The government should invest in purchasing more books like the ones donated by the MGRM and distribute them around schools, this will help even teachers’ deal with certain situations at school.
LGBTI+ Gozo hopes that the number of workshops said to be part of the project are well underway.