Supporting Childriend without Discrimination: A Non-Discriminatory Parent's Perspective
Every parent hopes to raise their child with love, acceptance, and respect. However, there are varying opinions on whether it's proper to intervene or even discourage friendships with children who identify as part of the LGBTQIA community. In this article, we explore why some parents would not punish a child for being friends with someone who is LGBTQIA and why supporting such friendships is crucial.
Why Parents Refrain from Punishment
Consider the case of Blackberry, who posed the question of whether punishing a child for being friends with an LGBTQIA individual is justified. Several responses highlighted that such an approach is unnecessary. For instance, one response noted, 'You are the bigot and homeophobic person not your child.' This clearly emphasizes that the parent is the one who needs to address their prejudiced views, not the child.
A Safe and Inclusive Environment
Many parents expressed that they never try to control who their child can be friends with. This stance is rooted in the belief that diversity and inclusivity are valuable and enriching aspects of life. One parent stated, 'And I want to add why would anyone even consider that LGBT is absolutely normal and natural.' The LGBTQIA community, like any other, is diverse and inclusive, fostering deep, loving relationships.
Encouraging Positive Relationships
Supporting such friendships is not just about avoiding negativity; it promotes a positive and accepting environment. In a Blessings, it was noted that friendship with LGBTQIA individuals should be encouraged, as they often value genuine and loving relationships more than others. This encouragement helps build a foundation of acceptance and understanding in the child's social environment.
The Importance of Morality and Respect
In cases where a child's friend might exhibit homophobic behavior, some parents might address it with a 'stern word,' as noted by a parent. This approach teaches children about the importance of respect and the consequences of discrimination. A parent might say, 'I would be proud of my child for accepting someone as they are,' highlighting that acceptance is a positive trait. It's important to remember that no parent, including those who hold discriminatory views, should dictate their child's social interactions.
A Concise Perspective
Another response provided a concise perspective, stating, 'Probably schedule playdates since my kiddo is too young to go hang out with friends without a ride somewhere. Make sure her friend didn’t have any food allergies so I could have good snacks for them snacks are important. I’d also want to get to know their parents because I could use some cool parent friends.' This shows that such friendships do not need to be restricted but rather managed with care and consideration.
Final Thoughts
Supporting children who have friends within the LGBTQIA community is a critical aspect of parenting in the modern world. It promotes a culture of acceptance, respect, and inclusivity. While every parent may have their own views, the overarching goal should be to encourage and respect all forms of human expression and social connections. By fostering a non-discriminatory environment, we ensure that children grow up to be kind, open-minded, and compassionate individuals.
Keywords: LGBTQIA, parent support, non-discrimination