The rainbow wall of wigs in my son Harry’s bedroom is definitely an eye-catcher. But it was the poster hanging above that furry cascade that seized my attention at his apartment in Bushwick last Saturday.
“That poster is so cool!” I told him.
“That poster should be in every classroom,” he replied.
I turned to read it again.
I flashed on Harry’s E-Z-Bake oven. The only batter he’d ever cared about was chocolate. And I knew the singular illustration rang true for him, too.
“You’re right,” I agreed. “It really should be. Where did you get it?”
“In Milwaukee, but I’ve seen it online. I’ll send you a link.”
There was an email from him when I got home. So now I get to share a link to the poster with you. And here’s the best part. There’s a free, downloadable hi-res PDF. And for only three bucks, 25 posters can land in any school or place where adults have the opportunity to enlighten kids on gender expression. Let’s see, how many schools in my neighborhood?
And the back of the poster is filled with bonus material. There are sweet little drawings and a smart list of questions to stimulate thought and discussion, like “What would the world look like without gender?” and “Do you feel forced to act in a certain way because of gender?”
Thank you, CrimethInc, for creating the poster. And authors Jacinta Bunnell and Irit Reinheimer deserve props for writing Girls Will Be Boys Will Be Girls, the coloring book that inspired the poster.
The poster is not just for kids either. For every child who wishes freedom in gender expression, there’s an adult who expects a rigid gender stereotype. But, you and me, we’re opening doors for those kids, and windows for those adults. It’s happening, people.
I want this poster! Great article. Thanks Harry and Julie!
I want one, too! And my order is in. Thanks for taking the time to comment, Rose. xo
Love this, Juliie. Thanks so much for sharing. You are the best Mom … and best friend to all.
Thanks for the kind words, Jon. You’re a doll. xo
Great poster, great message and one that I’m sure most of us of either gender have thought at one time in our lives! As always, thanks for sharing!
I so appreciate your comment, Kat, and think you’re right about this poster being easy for anyone to relate to. xx
Great blog, great poster, great family!!
I love all the greats! Thank you!! xo
What a great post, poster, and son! Thanks for sharing and always showing us the beautiful differences in this world.
Your comments always go straight to my heart, Renee. Thank you!! xo
Thanks for sharing. The poster certainly has a place in the classroom. As a former middle school English teacher, the poster would have been a great catalyst in our Literature circles to stimulate essays, group discussion and the making of other like posters. I especially like Harry’s self portrait.
I love hearing that this poster spoke to the teacher in you and triggered such wonderful ideas. I hope it’s a topic that middle school teachers everywhere embrace. Thank you! xo