Happy Empathy Day! One of my favourite books on this year’s Read for Empathy collection is The Fights That Make Us by Sarah Hagger-Holt. Not only is it the perfect choice to put yourself into someone’s shoes, it’s also appropriate for Pride Month!
I read The Fights That Make Us with two frames of mind. One, my own place in this community as a bisexual person, two, as an ex-teacher and someone who works and supports young people.
I often wear my bi pin to work and when I was a teacher I wore a little bi flag on my lanyard. It’s something I’m proud of, and I like those around me to know I’m a safe person. At school, my badge demonstrated that I was someone they could talk to, and I hope this continues with the kids at the youth theatre and book club.
I meet young people who are so sure of themselves, so proud and happy to be who they are, which fills me with such an intense joy. Reading about Lisa’s struggles and Jesse’s continuing fight make me furious. I’m well aware that although there have been improvements, there is still a long way to go. I also realise I am very lucky to have grown up near Brighton, where I went to Pride with my Dad every year. My Mum and I watched Will & Grace and laughed until we cried. Queer people and culture has always been a part of my life.
Section 28 was repealed in my first year of secondary school, 2003, which doesn’t feel that long ago. As a teacher, I don’t think I would have been able to keep quiet. In the past, I found myself having conversations with former colleagues about non-binary pupils and name changes with a simmer of frustration. I can’t imagine how Ms Ferraro felt, being employed at a place which denied her own existence.
Again, I appreciate that in my years of teaching, the majority of parents have been supportive when learning about Pride. And in any case I had fearsome Teaching Assistants who were ready to stand their ground on the playground.
I went through all the emotions reading this, the frustration, the anger at the unfairness of it all, pride for Jesse and Simran and their amazing exhibition. I think this should be compulsory reading at schools. Everyone should know about this part of history and how it continues to affect us, even now.
Side note: Amazing music choices for the chapter titles and I immediately made a playlist!