Are trans people truly fine?
To the editor:
As a member of the larger Christian/Traditional community here in Habersham, I would like to speak to the article “Trans people are fine, actually” published on Aug. 2, 2023. The writer claimed backing by “rigorous scientific evidence” although undocumented.
I could speculate on the author’s “scientific evidence” and share critiques of people like Freud and Kinsey presenting very different views. I could cite several major studies that document the high suicide rate among trans people, most blaming lack of acceptance as the root cause. I could present evidence of grooming and manipulation that is prevalent in schools and through various
organizations. I could speak of parents and recently formed groups fighting for the bodies and lives of their children.
Even so, I only want to recommend one resource that will cut to the heart of this issue – “Gender Transformation: The Untold Realities/A Documentary Every Parent Needs to Watch is an Epoch Original docudrama.”
Director Tobias Elvhage’s most recent awards include Best Short Film at the 2023 LA Documentary Film Festival and Winner of the 2023 European Cinematography Awards.
The film discloses educational, medical and financial forces behind the trans movement.
Real-life stories are shared; experts are interviewed. Courageous youth and parents break through the silence and bring hope to others who are struggling. This docudrama balances conviction with compassion.
Faye Short
Clarkesville
Attendance is a flawed concept
To the editor:
I would like to address the importance placed on school attendance in last week’s edition titled “Best school system? Data says Habersham.”
Pressuring students to attend school, which is most likely something they have little control over, is detrimental and an old-fashioned way of thinking. When schools incentivize and reward perfect attendance, we are basically saying funding is more important than your health.
Absenteeism due to illness makes children feel not worthy of receiving these attendance awards. I have been in classrooms where teachers keep track, publicly display and celebrate (or shame) student’s attendance.
I have taught children that are dropped off at school even though their hacking cough distracts the entire class. I have let students sleep during breaks because no phone call home will result in an adult coming to pick them up.
Children in the community should be intrinsically motivated and want to go to school. Kids need to be noticed when they show up and know they are missed if they don’t.
Bri Harnish
Clarkesville