Tory guidance on teaching politics is trying to fix a problem that doesn’t exist
CanaryNov 25, 2021
UK Issues First Guidance for Schools on Trans Issues
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Image copyright: Leon Neal/Getty Images News [via Getty Images]
The Facts
The UK government on Tuesday published its long-awaited draft recommendations for schools and teachers on transgender issues in England. The guidance, touted as a “parent first” approach, directs teachers to tell parents if their child wants to change gender.
The Department of Education has promised the guidance since 2018, but a draft had been delayed due to debate regarding the controversial issue. Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said that teachers and students aren't required to use different pronouns and maintained that parent’s views must “be at the heart of all decisions made about their children.”
The Spin
Progressive narrative
This new guidance on transgender students is actively dangerous and threatens the well-being of LGBTQ+ youth. Whitehall officials are essentially telling trans students that their identities are invalid and they aren't owed the dignity to live out their gender identities. Rather than further disempowering an already marginalized community, the government should be seeking ways to support these vulnerable students.
Conservative narrative
Radical ideologues have infiltrated the education system across the Western world, stripping students of their innocence and pushing a divide between parents and their children. The government is working to protect the family unit with this guidance, which, contrary to criticisms, doesn't marginalize transgender youth but rather brings parents back into the conversation. While it could be more forceful, it's a good start.
