Welcoming Community
Affirming Personal Boundaries
During our Teacher Connection meeting, a question arose regarding how might we bring elements of the OWL (Our Whole Lives, Sexuality Program) into our classroom discussions for each age group. As we explore this together as a community this year, we will share thoughts and feelings, perhaps explore language and most likely agree upon some best practices. One place to start is with the idea that we respect and affirm personal boundaries.
One example is that of an innocent hug which might have different meaning for each individual. Asking for permission to hug before giving a hug might be a simple step to model respect for personal boundaries. Ask, wait and look for a yes response before offering a hug. The other part of this is accepting that the person has the right to say no. Only yes, means yes.
Another way we can model respect for personal boundaries is in the openness we use with language. Individuals might explore pronouns by asking someone what words they might like to see used for them and around them. Many of our youth are aware that others may be searching for the identity they choose to associate with at this time. For some this may change. Asking and acknowledging that you hear someone and respect their right to choose a pronoun the represents them also reflects our principles.
We will have new signage for our bathrooms with the intent of safety and welcoming of all people and respecting the individual to choose the bathroom that best suits them. This may be something new for people to experience. There might be moments of surprise and or the newness of change and being uncomfortable with a change. As we observe new signs and build confidence in our asking the question of what descriptive words add to someone’s comfort level, all we really need to remember is the moment of compassion that can lead towards understanding and comfort.
One example is that of an innocent hug which might have different meaning for each individual. Asking for permission to hug before giving a hug might be a simple step to model respect for personal boundaries. Ask, wait and look for a yes response before offering a hug. The other part of this is accepting that the person has the right to say no. Only yes, means yes.
Another way we can model respect for personal boundaries is in the openness we use with language. Individuals might explore pronouns by asking someone what words they might like to see used for them and around them. Many of our youth are aware that others may be searching for the identity they choose to associate with at this time. For some this may change. Asking and acknowledging that you hear someone and respect their right to choose a pronoun the represents them also reflects our principles.
We will have new signage for our bathrooms with the intent of safety and welcoming of all people and respecting the individual to choose the bathroom that best suits them. This may be something new for people to experience. There might be moments of surprise and or the newness of change and being uncomfortable with a change. As we observe new signs and build confidence in our asking the question of what descriptive words add to someone’s comfort level, all we really need to remember is the moment of compassion that can lead towards understanding and comfort.
UUCY is committed to embracing diversity. Our new inclusive restroom signs help underscore our commitment to our visitors and members enjoying a harassment-free environment on our campus. Our children and youth that are gender non-confirming also need this safe, supportive environment.
Over 20 years ago, UUCY became a Welcoming Congregation. We celebrated this commitment together in worship. Our Time for All Ages reading that day was Jacob's New Dress. We also recommend the book I am Jazz. Single restrooms can be found in both the Sanctuary and Carriage House buildings.
Over 20 years ago, UUCY became a Welcoming Congregation. We celebrated this commitment together in worship. Our Time for All Ages reading that day was Jacob's New Dress. We also recommend the book I am Jazz. Single restrooms can be found in both the Sanctuary and Carriage House buildings.