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Roman Catholic Educators |
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By Ernest Barteldes
Fortaleza CE, Brazil
São Paulo, Brazil—In a highly publicized case, a 14-year old
gay male here is being discriminated against by
both staff members and fellow students in his Roman Catholic school.
Though most Brazilians advocate minority groups' rights, the publicity
generated in this case has seen the ugly face of prejudice unveiled.
Last week the schoolboy, "L" (name withheld) denounced the coordinators of Agostiniano Mendel Grade School, who'd threatened to expel him because of his sexual preference. In a letter published by a local newspaper, "L" not only fingered the school's staff but also his classmates and other students, who've mistreated him since he came out. Last April, "L", who has been a student at Agostiniano Mendel for nine years, fell for an older student from another class. He sent his intended several letters, called him at home and even followed the boy around the school's neighboring streets. His obsessive behavior was quickly noticed, becoming the talk of the campus.
Meanwhile, the object of "L's" affection has been appropriately discreet about the matter. He's already told "L" that he's heterosexual and wants no romantic involvement with him, but has also stated that he opposes any form of violence against his schoolmate, and has refused to sign anti-gay petitions. "L's" supporters believe that it is an educator's duty to teach pupils due respect for the nation's constitution and for other peoples' opinions and preferences. Others argue that the Agostiniano Mendel school teaches strict Roman Catholic doctrine, and since Catholics fiercely oppose same sex love and affection, the Catholic educators have simply complied with Vatican rulings. Critics fault the Roman Catholic principal and his staff, saying they should have dealt with "L" discreetly, thereby respecting his youthfulness and protecting both the boy and his family. Instead, they complain, these Catholic educators have gone on national TV programs expressing their Vatican-based biases. More thoughtful Brazilians say they feel that this unwarranted publicity directly and permanently affects the teenager, one who has, as yet, barely discovered his sexuality. The Catholic officials, they say, are planting seeds of hate which may, in the long run, have unintended results, damaging reputations and causing violence. |
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