The Oaks would have a field day on me and who I’ve become. As a polyamorous pansexual trans-masculine non-binary neuro-divergent leftist spiritual-agnostic, I’m glad I didn’t finish out my senior year because now I’m free of any contact from them. (Took out the acronyms and just wrote them out because whoever is reading this likely is not versed in queer theory).
I’m sorry to the students currently there and implore you all the look outside the views of the school and see what else there is. Watch documentaries. Read more than just your viewpoints new. Learn about other religions without the fear-mongering. Make your own views. And if you can and have the bravery, challenge your teachers. Bring in peer-reviewed studies about evolution and tell them that wives should be equal to their spouses. Acknowledge that queer people exist. Don’t let the teachers limit you (Looking at you Mr. sex ed is too controversial for a thesis topic). Find the courage to stand up for yourself if you can.
But for those of you that can’t, you are still so strong. If you are stuck there for whatever reason I care for you and I love you and hold you in my heart. Not for the capitalistic ideals that The Oaks primed us for. You are worthy outside your work. You do not have to always be productive. Make your way through this and college seems easy. Try to challenge yourself to look at different viewpoints than your peers.
Finally, if you are a queer person at The Oaks, there are more us! You are not alone. We share and bear your story. You are so so loved and have an army behind you and you can always reach out to many of us for support.
I am not in a place to unpack all the trauma The Oaks dealt me, but I believe in radical love so to all you acorns out there, I love you and I am here for you.
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