Discrimination of LGBTQ+ Youth in Schools
Although in recent years there has been a positive trend regarding inclusivity and pride in schools worldwide, in no way has it eliminated the discrimination that LGBTQ+ youth still have to face. Such experiences include verbal harassment, physical harassment and physical assault. One can state that overall this is an issue of bullying, however, the underlying issue is found to be homophobia/transphobia others (peers, teachers, parents e.t.c) project onto them. Such treatment can lead to the victim dropping out of school, having lower aspirations for post-secondary education, as well as higher chances of dealing with low self-esteem and mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety - all of which have several other negative social externalities. Additionally, research has found that on a global scale, transgender or non-cis gendered students face higher levels of discrimination and bullying from peers and teachers. This could well be due to the lack of awareness and education regarding gender identity, however, it should never be an excuse to justify hate or mistreatment.
Stigma Around Pride In HK Schools
Erving Goffman identified three different types of stigma; one of them being “stigma attached to the identification of a particular race, ethnicity, ideology, sexuality e.t.c” (Social Science Libre Texts 2021), which is especially prominent within Asian countries including Hong Kong. Such forms of continuous prejudice have proven to be highly destructive for Hong Kong’s LGBTQ+ youth, as it encourages negative stigma around pride which can easily push teenagers into negative headspaces and steer them further away from self-identity. Self-acceptance and discovery is a concept many preach and advocate - up until it comes to marginalized communities. People the youth are supposed to look up to such as teachers or parents are often found defending their actions through religion, which can easily steer children into either spreading hate and prejudice against minorities themselves, or gain a sense of resentment against the prominent ideologies that have influenced our society till this day.
To illustrate this, Dr. Suen Yiu-tung, assistant professor at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, conducted a study a few years back to observe how tolerant universities in HK were of LGBTQ+ students. It was found that some students felt especially anxious opening up about their gender and sexual identity; some believing they would be more vulnerable to homophobia or being outed, as several colleagues and peers had strong religious backgrounds. In no way does this mean religion or one’s beliefs are outright “wrong”, or anyone religious would necessarily be spreading hate in any way. That being said, schools with religious backgrounds and preachings should make a progressive effort to spread acceptance and positivity through such ideologies, instead of depriving the LGBTQ+ youth of educational and social opportunities. It is also worth mentioning how within the city, there are inclusive religious schools that aim to provide a safe space for students and staff within the community while acknowledging how detrimental discrimination can be specified through religion.
As stated in a 2015 SCMP Young Posts article, “Peer acceptance is a crucial element in promoting a safe environment for the LGBT Youth”, however, this can only be achieved if the school body establishes a positive network for the community from the start. Fortunately in recent years, several international and some local schools have implemented policies and councils aimed at looking after their proud youth and hopefully, this can become the new norm for Hong Kong’s educational institutions in the near future.
Social Media Being A Safe Space
For many within the community, social media is considered to be a “safe space”. Through platforms such as Instagram, Twitter and other online forums, people can gain a sense of belonging within communities or with individuals online - something they unfortunately may not be able to experience through their ‘in-person’ interactions. Not only are they able to empathize and relate with other individuals they come across, but it can also help with prevalent social issues such as self-acceptance. With greater internet access over the years, people have been exposed and educated regarding the spectrum that gender and sexuality is; a medium many stuck in conservative environments are grateful for - whether you are part of the community or simply an ally.
On the contrary, social media fostering a safe atmosphere takes away attention from the distressing fundamental conflict: the LGBTQ+ youth are often being forced to resort to online communities in order to gain emotional support and guidance that they may lack offline. This conflict is expressed by Traci K. Gillig, PhD, assistant professor at Washington State University, when she explained how the LGBTQ+ youths' average social media patterns can negatively affect their psychological patterns over time. Such dependence on online platforms can easily deprive adolescents of necessary in-person interaction, which can lead to a number of destructive consequences.
Local Pride Charities & Organisations
On the brighter side, as Hong Kong has become more accepting and inclusive regarding pride, more charities and organisations have come forward defending the LGBTQ+ community in Hong Kong. A notable charity that has been serving since 1999 (when Hong Kong’s first pride parade took place) is Pink Alliance! They are a non-profitable organisation that advocates and educates in support of different sexual orientations and gender identity, whilst hosting several activities, support groups and pride marches. They also hold an annual pride festival called “Pink Season” that is yet to take place this year! Whether you are part of the community yourself or an ally, there is nothing wrong with wanting to educate yourself and learn how to be as supportive as possible. Likewise, there is nothing wrong with wanting to seek emotional guidance and take steps towards self-discovery and acceptance!
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Writer: Tisya Gupta
Editor: Shen Tan
Graphics: Ran Zhao
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