It doesn’t have to be difficult for parents to explain our LGBT neighbors to children | Opinion
Easy explanation
I’ve grown weary of the same old argument that David Mastio makes in his commentary about LGBTQ reading material and young children. (Nov. 7, 7A, “Kudos to AGs Bailey, Kobach for joining anti-LGBT book suit”) “Is it so unreasonable to want to let your kids grow up a little before you have to explain what a queen is and why some men like to wear dresses or why some people who used to be thought of as men are now women?” he asks.
What I found when raising my two children is that when kids are very young, they take their cues from their parents without much questioning. To help Mastio with the difficult burden of explaining queens, queers and cross-dressers to young children, I offer the following template: “Sometimes boys like boys, and sometimes girls like girls. Sometimes boys dress like girls, and sometimes girls dress like boys. And that’s OK. We treat all people with kindness.”
See? That wasn’t so difficult. That is the lesson these books look to teach our young children. I can’t fathom why any parent would be opposed to that.
- Brian Grant, Leawood
Military goods
What I liked best about the military was swift justice. Just kidding, I liked going to sea and visiting liberty ports.
We swore to defend the Constitution (the three branches of government, plus the amendments) against foreign and domestic enemies (don’t be one of those). We also swore to follow orders from the president and the chain of command, subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
I got a good conduct award, a college degree and health care when I needed it. Thank you for your support.
- Jim Turner, Independence
Get involved
A record number of women are running for public office in Kansas and Missouri. Many are first-time candidates, while a minority are incumbents. Often the difference between running and winning lies in the support, training and financial contributions these candidates seek once they’ve announced.
The Greater Kansas City Women’s Political Caucus, an affiliate of the National Women’s Political Caucus, is a multipartisan, multicultural, grassroots organization dedicated to increasing women’s participation in politics and creating a power base designed to achieve equality for all women.
The caucus is a linchpin for many progressive candidates, especially the political newbies looking for mentoring from elected female officials. It teaches how to build a fundraising machine, and helps with public-speaking skills and finding the best campaign talent.
Our Campaign School on Jan. 20 will focus on supporting women who are interested in running for office or becoming volunteers. The training is free thanks to a grant from the Women in Politics Foundation. You can learn more at gkcwpc.org/events/
- Laura Loyacono, President, Greater Kansas City Women’s Political Caucus, Kansas City
Find a friend
Save a life and make your own better by giving an older dog a home during national “Adopt a Senior Pet Month” this November.
Senior dogs have so much love to give, are easier than puppies and are usually house-trained. Yet, they are often overlooked. To find your new best friend, visit a shelter such as Melissa’s Second Chances at mscrescue.org or search on petfinder.com or adoptapet.com
According to The Grey Muzzle Organization, people who have adopted senior dogs usually say they would do it again in a heartbeat. If you’re among them, please share your dog’s photo and story on social media using the hashtag #GreyMuzzleGratitude.
You can be a hero by giving a senior pet a second chance. In return, you’ll receive the unconditional love and companionship of a very grateful old dog.
- Krystal Kaufman, Marketing manager, Melissa’s Second Chances, Shawnee
