Trent's job search is on.
I am completely "out" at my workplace today. Being myself is honestly a blessing. In my years of teaching, that wasn't the case. In my last few years, most my coworkers knew, but the students didn't. I did not want to endure the drama that "a single parent" could whip up into a firestorm. Teachers are scrutinized enough as it is. They are expected to be perfect in all split-second situations: teacher, mentor, guard, parent, counselor, supervisor — for 22+ kids all at once. They don't receive enough credit.
I have teacher friends in other states who are very out. Their particular schools strive for diversity. I applaud their courage.
Some jobs are more accepting of being gay. Thankfully, times have improved. Once the Supreme Court ruled for equality in marriage, that made a huge step.
At the same time, it would be naive to thing "all is good." It's not. Clearly there are instances where being one's true self can get you fired. Gay people are more visible now than ever before on commercials, television, movies — and we're making baby steps in professional sports. But I often realize that the average person doesn't know or understand that extra layer of caution and anxiety many people in the workplace have draped upon them.
Because I had to feel that way, I assume it made me a bit more understanding of the Black Lives Matter movement. I wasn't going to fall into the trap of "All Lives Matter." They do. But that wasn't the message, nor was it "Only Black Lives Matter." Everyone should be able to say "I matter." I got it.
Here's a spoiler for you since you're reading the blog: a hint for something waaaaay down the line for Trent... his homosexuality will impact his job. I'll say nothing more.
Comment below.
Timothy,
ReplyDeleteI can totally relate to being a gay teacher. All it would take is one accusation and your career blows up. We certainly are not alone, but the profession makes it tricky sometimes. Those that teach young children have their own set of circumstances, but if you teach high school that's a whole 'nother thing.
I never was adversely affected in the workplace by being gay. In fact, at my last job, my partner started working for the same employer (in a different department) two years after I did. Three weeks after he started, I was stopped by a woman in another department, saying, "Hey Scott, I heard that new guy in the file room is your main man. Is that true?" I confirmed that it was. She then asked, "How long have you two been together?" I said, "Seventeen years." Her eyes got wide, and she exclaimed, "Seventeen years? I don't even have any straight friends who have been together that long!"
ReplyDeleteI am going to get a lot of negative feedback I'm sure from what I am about to say. I have worked blue collar for the past 30 years in a huge shop. Unfortunately you are better off not stating your lifestyle. Granted we all have had the classes and talks about being judgement free, bullying etc. It isn't really tolerated at all, but there are still the snickers and ridicule once you walk away that goes for male and female. There isn't any bullying for the fact that 'no tolerance' is enforced more than ever. Granted there have been some that have been accepted to a degree but these are people that are excellent at their jobs and aren't 'skipping through the departments singing show tunes.' I'm joking I'm sure no one would think twice if they saw that (yeah right). Now on the other hand the salary personnel are more accepted because if there is an issue there will be firings etc. So even though I don't agree with it but sometimes to survive you have to keep your mouth shut. Let's face it you are not going to pay your mortgage, etc. on principle
ReplyDeleteFantastic chapter as always…still hesitant until Mike and Trent become a permanent couple.
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