Hello everyone! Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s stirred up quite a bit of chatter, especially in the world of education and family dynamics. The Vermont Department of Health recently sparked a conversation with their advice on using more inclusive language in schools.
In a Facebook post, the department suggested that educators and families might want to rethink the terms “son” and “daughter” and instead opt for “child” or “kid” as more gender-neutral alternatives.
Now, you might be wondering, why the change? According to the Vermont Department of Health, this shift is all about promoting equity in the classroom—a key ingredient for creating a productive and healthy learning environment. The idea is to use language that’s more inclusive, particularly in situations where someone’s family structure or personal identity might not align with traditional gendered terms.
But of course, not everyone is on board with this suggestion. The post quickly caught the attention of Libs of TikTok, a well-known right-wing social media account that often highlights controversial topics related to LGBTQ issues. They shared the post, adding a dose of skepticism to the conversation.
Soon after, the Dansbury Institute, a group of nonpartisan churches that weigh in on public policy issues, also chimed in, voicing their concern over what they see as an “erosion of the meaning of words” and a “dismantling of family” as society’s cornerstone.
When asked to clarify their stance, the Vermont Department of Health explained that the guidance is simply meant to encourage the use of inclusive language, particularly in cases where a person’s family situation might not be immediately clear. It’s part of a broader effort to make schools more welcoming for all students, regardless of their background or identity.
This guidance is not entirely out of the blue. The Vermont Department of Health has long promoted health equity, and their website even features a glossary filled with terms that reflect this commitment.
For example, their definition of gender goes beyond traditional male and female classifications, acknowledging a spectrum of identities influenced by social expectations. They also tackle complex issues like internalized racism and white privilege, exploring how these concepts impact individuals and society as a whole.
As you can imagine, the department’s recommendations have sparked a wide range of reactions. Some see it as a positive step toward inclusivity, while others view it as a challenge to long-standing societal norms.
Regardless of where you stand on the issue, it’s clear that this conversation is far from over. As schools gear up for the new academic year, educators and families alike will be navigating these evolving guidelines and figuring out how best to support all students in their educational journey.
