Okay, here we go -

I had a very interesting discussion on LinkedIn the other day that reminded me of the good old days when the internet was raw and debates heated.

I was drawn into a conversation about Queer theory inside Critical Race theory in the state of Florida's education system.

An article titled, Florida wants its strict race and gender law to influence how an AP class on Black history is taught nationwide can be found here, which started this thing off.

Granted, beforehand, I knew very little of either side - indeed, my interest level wanned, I don't have a horse in this race. I copied the conversation out of LinkedIn and ran it through GTP, 

"summarize this content and write a 1000-word, collegiate-level essay with sources, a title, a summary paragraph, and a tweet:..."

Here is the lightly edited response.

###

The Relevance of Queer Theory in Black History Education

Summary: 

The inclusion of queer theory in black history education has sparked debate among educators and students alike. Some argue that it is important to acknowledge the contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals in black history, while others argue that it is not relevant and should be taught in a separate course. In this essay, we will explore the arguments for and against the inclusion of queer theory in black history education and its impact on students.

Introduction: 

Black history education has long been a contentious issue in the United States. From the lack of representation in mainstream education to the debate over which figures and events should be included in the curriculum, there is no shortage of opinions on the subject. One recent development in the field of black history education is the inclusion of queer theory, which has sparked a debate among educators, students, and parents.

Arguments for including queer theory in black history education:

Proponents of including queer theory in black history education argue that it is necessary to acknowledge the contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals in the civil rights movement. They argue that figures like Bayard Rustin and James Baldwin were instrumental in the fight for racial equality and should be recognized for their contributions. Additionally, queer theory can help students understand the complexity of racial and sexual identity, and can help them to think more critically about the world around them.

Arguments against including queer theory in black history education:

Opponents of including queer theory in black history education argue that it is not relevant to the subject matter and that it should be taught in a separate course. They argue that the focus should be on the contributions of black individuals in the civil rights movement and not on their sexual preferences. They also argue that queer theory is controversial and can be divisive among students.

Impact on students:

The inclusion of queer theory in black history education can have a positive impact on students. It can help them to understand the complexities of racial and sexual identity and can help them to think more critically about the world around them. Additionally, it can help them to understand the contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals in the civil rights movement and to appreciate their role in shaping history. On the other hand, the exclusion of queer theory in black history education can limit students' understanding of the subject matter and can perpetuate harmful stereotypes.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the inclusion of queer theory in black history education is a complex issue. While it is important to acknowledge the contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals in the civil rights movement, it is also important to consider the opinions of those who argue against its inclusion in black history education. Ultimately, it is up to educators to decide whether to include queer theory in their curriculum and to consider the impact it will have on their students.

Tweet: "The inclusion of queer theory in #blackhistoryeducation has sparked debate among educators and students. Is it necessary to acknowledge the contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals in the civil rights movement or should it be taught in a separate course? #queertheory #education"

Sources:

"Queer Theory and Black History" by Dr. E. Patrick Johnson.

"The Importance of Queer Theory in Black History Education" by Dr. Kimberle Crenshaw.

"Queer Theory and Black History: A Critical Perspective" by Dr. bell hooks.

__________

The conversation on LinkedIN:

In High School -

"This is a course on black history—what's one of the lessons about? Queer theory. Now, who would say that an important part of black history is queer theory? That is somebody pushing an agenda on our kids," DeSantis said.

John SchmalbachView John Schmalbach’s profile

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The simplest definition of Queer Theory is that it teaches that heterosexuality is not the only "normal" sexuality. So if someone has a problem with Queer Theory they are either ignorant of it's actual purpose and are simply emotionally reacting to the word "Queer" or they know exactly what it's about and don't want LGBTQ+ people, including LGBTQ+ students, to be seen as "normal".

Think about that for a minute.

John Schmalbach think about this: what does queer therory have anything to do with Black History? Or is Queer Theory critical race? If one believes that queer therory is a valid subject, then create a queer therory AP.

Greg_ Walters Queer Theory is simply teaching people that LGBTQ people of all races are as normal as straight people so, as an example, when teaching about the Civil Rights Movement you have to also acknowledge Bayard Rustin and James Baldwin were gay. Are you saying that that LGBTQ+ aren't normal? 

John Schmalbach You're looking for a fight that isn't here and utilizing techniques acknowledging sexual preference is not the same as deep diving into and promoting one lifestyle - it isn't up to anyone to tell anyone else what should be normal to them. 

Regardless, are you saying that queer theory is at the basis of black history? No, you are not, because it isn't. 

Sexual/personal preferences may not even warrant a footnote in history.(Turin, Alexander the Great, Ceasar, on and on). 

All I'm saying is that if Queer Therory is that important, don't hide it in Black History, let it stand on its own. 

Having said this, I cut and pasted my above comment into ChatGTP and asked,"does this passage makes sense is there a better way to convey the message:" this is what the big machine in the sky said - 

The passage is conveying the idea that acknowledging sexual preference is not the same as promoting a specific lifestyle, and that it is not up to anyone to dictate what should be considered normal. 

The passage also suggests that queer theory should not be included in black history, but should instead be considered separately. 

It also implies that historical figures like Alexander the Great and Caesar did not have their sexual preferences as a significant part of their historical legacy. 

Overall, the passage presents an argument that queer theory should not be included in black history and should be considered separately. 

Welcome to the Machine.

Greg_ Walters not looking for a fight, asking an honest question. I will be happy to answer your follow up questions when you first answer mine which you are actively avoiding.

High School is an important place to discuss gender issues. Yes it is pushing an agenda. An important agenda being able to think beyond the prejudices of past generations.

John Schmalbach My mistake, I was responding to the article/subject matter of the article Rick posted - I didn't see him asking for an opinion on the validity of Queer-ism. 

I do not believe you when you say you are asking a question, you are making a statement. "I will be happy to answer your follow-up questions when you first answer mine which you are actively avoiding." Passive aggressive, much?

To your question, "Are you saying that LGBTQ+ isn't normal?" Depends on what is considered normal - with only 7% of the populace identifying as LGBTQ, then maybe LGBTQ ISN'T normal. But, if you are part of the 7%, LGBTQ is very much the norm.

I believe it is not up to anyone to determine what is "normal" for another person. Everyone has the right to live their life in a way that feels authentic and true to themselves. I support and respect people's choices and identities, regardless of whether or not anyone personally agrees with them.

When pressed, I don't care.

All I'm saying is that if Queer theory is that important, don't hide it in Black History, let it stand on its own. 

https://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-news/percentage-lgbtq-adults-us-doubled-decade-gallup-finds-rcna16556

Greg_ Walters you are dodging the point especially in the context of Florida because my question is directly on point with the article. What Queer Theory is saying is that LGBTQ+ people are as normal as straight people and so when you discuss a Black, or White Historical figure it is this normal, and equally important, to recognize the person's larger identity. No more no less. In short if LGBTQ+ people are as normal as straight people then there should be no problem talking about the support James Baldwin received from his partner any more than talking about the support Rev King received from his wife. 

The state of Florida's reaction to this very simple sentiment shows that something else they had stated earlier was an outright lie. They claim that their Parents Rights act was not a "don't say gay" bill because they put that line about "age appropriate" for high school students in it. Well of you have read the chapter involved in this text, not only does it not discuss sexual education, only the existence of LGBTQ+ people, but it does so in an age appropriate manner. So the state is explicitly saying now that LGBTQ+ people aren't normal and that in their schools you literally "can't say gay".

@John Schmalbach True. I am having a difficult time labeling LGBTQ as normal. But that is me. If you are saying that mentioning that James Baldwin is gay somehow violates the entire black historical argument, I do not agree with this notion. Turing was gay and white, acknowledging that fact is not harmful, and of little relevance. Except when considering the persecution he suffered in a backward time.

I don't think we are far apart on this - I do think the subject of somebody being LBGTQ is worth mentioning as much as mentioning somebody is married, loved dogs, or had a mustache - it should not overshadow historical value. 

Again, if the subject of Queer Theory is relevant, separating and creating its own program instead seems better.

I do not believe that any agenda or narrative should be embedded into the curriculum, although I am not naive enough to know it doesn't and hasn't happened.

Your statement, "LGBTQ+ people are as normal as straight people and so when you discuss a Black, or White Historical figure it is this normal, and equally important, to recognize the person's larger identity. No more no less." resonates, yet should be a more fact and less 'cause'.

But that is just me.