Mr. Howe’s representation of Joe is not simply an incidental device to encourage civility to those who seem different in some way. Rather, it is a clear bid to change beliefs. Mr. Howe wants kids everywhere to come away from this book seeing “nothing wrong” with homosexuality. In actuality, Joe is not a misfit, he is a teacher, making sure those who disapprove of him get the message that they are plagued with incorrect “attitudes and ignorance.”
Now I know why GLSEN is involved with this event.
It appears that NNCW may be another effort on the part of GLSEN and other event organizers to tell those who object to homosexuality on religious or philosophical grounds to “drop dead.”
Adults: want to end bullying and harassment in the schools? Don’t call names, don’t pit groups against each other, enact anti-harassment policies covering all students and then enforce them. Oh, and take a pass on NNCW.
Warren Throckmorton is director of college counseling and an associate professor of psychology at Grove City College. His research "Initial Empirical and Clinical Findings Concerning the Change Process for Ex-Gays," was published in the June 2002 issue of the American Psychological Association's publication Professional Psychology: Research and Practice. Contact him at ewthrockmorton@gcc.edu. Learn about the documentary "I Do Exist" at www.idoexist.net.
