La Voz

America is well-known for the equality and diversity of its citizens. This nation’s nickname is the “melting pot,” meaning that those of all ethnic backgrounds meet in America’s cities to converse, work and live.

But the concept of the melting pot should not halt at diversity of ethnicity. The United States should not ignore, either, the other political and human interests of its citizens.

The women’s movement, especially after gaining momentum in the ‘60s, is responsible for the vast improvement in gender equality we’ve seen in this country over the past century. This sense of equality was only a theory and a goal, albeit violently opposed by some, at one time.

Sexual orientation should not be treated any differently. The California government has finally made a step in the right direction.

Assembly Bill 606 and Senate Bill 1437 both promote homosexuality awareness in schools in an attempt to lessen the awkward gap between “straight” and “gay.”

AB 606 gives the California Superintendent of Public Instruction the power to withhold state funds from school districts that are not tolerant of transsexuality, bisexuality, and homosexuality.

SB 1437 expressly prohibits textbooks, instructional materials and school-sponsored activities from “reflecting adversely” on transsexuality, bisexuality or homosexuality.

Adding textbook lessons focusing on those who are not only ethnically diverse but also sexually diverse will help children to be tolerant of others.

America’s education is lacking sorely in all departments and being trampled by countries such as China and India.

Here is our chance to excel in the knowledge of a minority that, with the help of these bills, will hopefully become more socially accepted in this nation and maybe even in this world.

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