Freethought & Rationalism Archive

Fr.Andrew · 07-31-2003, 01:51 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bluenose
In their chronology section Hogan & Hudson (1998) say:

"April 1, 1985
In New York City, the Hetrick-Martin Institute opens the Harvey Milk School for 20 openly lesbian and gay teenagers in the basement of a Greenwich Village church. The city-funded high school provides a place of refuge for the students, many of whom have dropped out of other schools to escape repeated abuse and harassment." page 658

(Fr Andrew): This is at odds with the article referenced in the OP. I wonder which is correct?

BDS · 07-31-2003, 01:52 PM

Of course, themistocles. I just saw a TV show about this, and everyone agreed that it would be better if we could discipline the bullies. Unfortunately, that's what New York schools have been trying to do and it's not working (according to the experts on the show). So New York needs to try something new.

There are plenty of options other than a segregated Gay high school, but apparently the school system thought this would be the cheapest, most effective way of protecting some kids.

Is it the best way? I'm sure it isn't. Is it the most cost effective alternative? I have no idea, but the School Systenm thinks so. Is it better than doing nothing? I don't know, of course, but I vote, "yes".

Fr.Andrew · 07-31-2003, 02:08 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by dk
There are thousands of adults that change their sexual orientation.

(Fr Andrew): This is incorrect. There are a handfull of anecdotal accounts from religious fundamentalists, but nothing substantiated. And some high-profile backsliding.
To change your sexual orientation, you must change the object of your sexual desire.
Try it.

Quote:

Originally posted by dk
Which brings me to my next question: If the purpose of this school is to provide an environment free from harassment, why not extend admittance to all children who are beaten up, picked on or otherwise harassed?

(Fr Andrew): As I understand it, admittance is extended to any child so treated.

Quote:

Originally posted by dk
Because children raised in gay and lesbian families are special, therefore have special needs.

(Fr Andrew): It wouldn't surprise me, but do you think that children raised by same-sex parents are gay?

Quote:

Originally posted by dk
"...there's no test for sexual orientation..."

(Fr Andrew): Sure there is. Grab his crotch...if you feel something stirring, he's at least bi.

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07-31-2003, 01:52 PM	#32
BDS Veteran Member Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Eugene, OR, USA Posts: 3,187	Of course, themistocles. I just saw a TV show about this, and everyone agreed that it would be better if we could discipline the bullies. Unfortunately, that's what New York schools have been trying to do and it's not working (according to the experts on the show). So New York needs to try something new. There are plenty of options other than a segregated Gay high school, but apparently the school system thought this would be the cheapest, most effective way of protecting some kids. Is it the best way? I'm sure it isn't. Is it the most cost effective alternative? I have no idea, but the School Systenm thinks so. Is it better than doing nothing? I don't know, of course, but I vote, "yes".

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