Reference no: EM132192878

Question: Tameeka Murphy. Student 1

The document "Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack II: Sexual Orientation is an effective tool for hetrosexual individuals because opens their eyes that they are privileged in many ways based on their sexual orientation. A hetrosexual individual does not have to defend their orientation and it is not viewed as a choice but considered "normal". For me, after reading the document it made me think more about what an individual who's sexual orientation is anything other than hetrosexual deals with on a daily basis. There are many obstacles that one must face in their everyday lives just because of their sexual orientation. I think the metaphor of "Unpacking the invisible knapsack" means that hetrosexuals do not realize that they are privileged by not having to defend their sexual orientation whereas a person who is of the LBGT community has to defend their sexuality or be judged by other members of society.

Some ways that us as social workers can become better role model for the LBGT community is first pushing aside our biases and more personal development. In order to become a better professional there has to be some growth and professional development that needs to be done. From my life experiences I have been privileged to attend educational iinstitutions with people of all racial ethnicities and sexual orientations and from those experiences as well as growing up in New York City that we are all individuals and we all bleed the same therefore no matter the race, gender, sex, ethnicity, iimmigration status WE should all be treated equally.

Shameeka McAllister. Student 2

The document "Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack II: Sexual Orientation" was an eye opener for me. This reading made me realize that even though I face oppression as a black woman, I am privileged as a heterosexual. It is an effective tool because it sheds light on the daily struggles of those individuals who identify as an alternative sexuality. For example, finding a service provider such as a therapist or a doctor is a struggle for those of alternative sexualities which I find disheartening. This metaphor made me realize that I am privileged to be able to function in society without being ridiculed or judged based on my sexuality. I do not have to maneuver differently around others or be careful not to make anyone uncomfortable which is a daily struggle for those of other sexualities.

As social workers we should realize that those who identify as anything besides heterosexual face challenges on a daily basis. It is important to identify our own biases and ensure that every client feels welcomed and not afraid to be themselves. In my office there is a team of clinical consultants that educate the staff on appropriate and inappropriate terms when engaging with the LGBTQ community. They are a true asset to the team as they help to refer services to children who are struggling to identify their own sexualities which is becoming more common in today's society. Becoming better role models entail being better educated and sharing that knowledge to our clients. As a Child Protective Specialist, I have encountered children who identify as gay but they did not have accepting parents. I was able to refer these parents to educational and support groups that would help them to better understand their children and provide that emotional support. Being a black woman in society helps me to understand what it feels like to be oppressed which makes me compassionate towards the LGBTQ community. While I feel like there are many changes in society that need to be made for my own population, I can still aim to become a stronger advocate for those of alternative sexualities.