Dear Editor:
RE: Rainbow criticism, June 9.
I was both disappointed and saddened upon reading Diane Breukelman’s letter regarding rainbows.
While this is not a reaction that I’d generally regard as good, I know full well that had my paper arrived a few hours earlier, my reaction would have been far more visceral and negative, so I feel pretty satisfied with myself. What can I credit for keeping my blood pressure in check and providing such a shift in perspective? The fact that I had just got home from the “Supporting My Queer Youth” information session, organized and hosted by Center Wellington District High School’s PRISM club.
This group of kind, compassionate and incredibly insightful youth, with the support of school staff, created such a warm and welcoming space for all of us to learn and grow. The two speakers were wonderful, sharing their experiences and knowledge openly and freely. I don’t recall ever feeling so at peace in a room full of strangers.
But it wasn’t that alone that prompted my change in perspective. It was, in fact, the words of someone super wise and decades younger than myself. She reminded us all that our thoughts, opinions and beliefs are a manifestation of the things we’ve been taught and our lived experiences. She also pointed out that with so much change coming at us so quickly, us older folks have very much to un-learn, and it’s okay if we stumble, struggle and make mistakes.
The key is in our willingness to try. To be open to listening, to challenging our beliefs as we sit with discomfort and to commit to treating others with grace and dignity even when we can’t get to aligning with their beliefs.
With that reminder front of mind, I will do my best to not pass judgement on Ms. Breukelman’s beliefs and rather focus on answering the question she posed. Ms. Breukelman is clearly very concerned about our children. I applaud that. She wondered about what to tell kids when they ask about the rainbows that are in abundance this month. As with any other question a child may pose, my suggestion is to simply reply with the truth. June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate diversity; to let members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community know that they are seen, loved and valued and to help everyone feel accepted.
The rainbow is simply a symbol of this, much like the poppy is a symbol of remembrance and a hope for peace. If that seems too complex for younger children, it can be broken down further. The rainbows are reminders for all of us to love each other.
Happy Pride!
Erika Longman,
Fergus