How does institutional resistance manifest even within seemingly progressive educational frameworks? In this essay, I will examine how institutional resistance to sex education can be found within seemingly progressive educational frameworks through an analysis of three examples from my personal experience.
During my time at a prestigious private college, I encountered resistance to teaching about LGBTQ+ identities and experiences in the classroom. While many students expressed interest in learning more about these topics, some faculty members were hesitant to include them in the curriculum due to concerns that they might offend conservative parents. This resistance was particularly prevalent among those who had children attending the school, leading to a situation where certain aspects of the curriculum could not be taught openly. This resistance manifested despite the fact that the college had made strides towards becoming more diverse and inclusive in other ways.
While working as a teacher at a public high school, I witnessed resistance to comprehensive sexuality education. Despite having implemented a mandatory health course that included modules on sexuality and relationships, some parents objected to their children receiving such instruction. They claimed that it would corrupt their values or encourage promiscuous behavior, even though the course included information about safe sex practices and the importance of consent. The resistance to this course came primarily from religious communities, which saw it as contrary to their beliefs.
When tutoring privately for young adults preparing for university applications, I observed resistance to discussions of gender norms and stereotypes. Many students were reluctant to address these topics directly, preferring instead to focus on traditional academic subjects like math and science. They felt uncomfortable exploring topics related to identity and expression because they believed it would damage their chances of getting into selective programs. This resistance was based on a fear of appearing weak or vulnerable, despite my efforts to create a supportive environment where all opinions were valued.
These examples illustrate how institutional resistance to sex education can manifest even within seemingly progressive educational frameworks. While institutions may have policies that appear to promote diversity and inclusion, individual faculty members and administrators often resist implementing them due to concerns about backlash from conservative communities or families.
Students may feel pressured not to openly explore certain aspects of their identities due to societal expectations around academics and achievement.
This demonstrates the need for continued advocacy and activism in order to ensure that all individuals have access to comprehensive and inclusive education on matters of sexuality and gender.
How does institutional resistance manifest even within seemingly progressive educational frameworks?
Institutional resistance is a phenomenon wherein individuals are hesitant towards change and adopting new ideas because of their fear of losing power, privileges, influence, security, status quo, and traditions. Such an attitude often leads to the failure of meaningful transformations in an organization that may potentially benefit everyone involved. Even though education institutions claim to be more open to changes than other sectors, they also face this problem.