Ep 9. Pink Boy

POV is a PBS documentary series that features non-fiction films from both American and international filmmakers. In the 29th season of the show, episode 9 titled "Pink Boy" takes a closer look at the topic of gender and how it shapes our perceptions of others and ourselves.

The episode takes its name from a young boy named BJ who has a love for the color pink and all things traditionally associated with femininity. While this might seem like a harmless preference, BJ's parents are met with a great deal of resistance from society when they try to support their son's individuality.

The film explores BJ's journey as a gender creative child and the obstacles that he and his family face. From the negative reactions of extended family members to the backlash on social media, the documentary highlights how deeply ingrained gender norms and expectations are in our society.

Through interviews with BJ's parents, educators, and experts in child psychology, "Pink Boy" also looks at the larger issue of gender identity and the challenges that come with raising a gender creative child.

The film reflects on how society often views young boys like BJ as "incorrect" or "wrong" for expressing a preference for things that are typically associated with girls. This is a narrative that perpetuates harmful stereotypes and contributes to the stigmatization of individuals who do not conform to traditional gender roles.

The documentary explores the damage that these stereotypes can have on children like BJ, who are attempting to navigate the complexities of gender identity while also trying to assert their own individuality. It also examines how institutions like school and religion can reinforce these stereotypes and further marginalize non-conforming children.

Throughout the film, we see BJ's parents struggle to find a balance between supporting their son's individuality and protecting him from the harmful messages that he receives from society. They want to protect their son, but they also want to ensure that he knows that his identity is valid and deserving of respect.

Ultimately, "Pink Boy" is a call to action for parents, educators, and society as a whole to do better in terms of supporting children who do not fit into narrowly defined gender roles. The film asks us to reconsider the assumptions we make about gender, and to open our hearts and minds to the possibility that there is no one "right" way to be a boy or a girl.

Through BJ's story, we see the power of love and acceptance in helping a child to grow and thrive. The documentary is a reminder that every child deserves to be celebrated for who they are, regardless of how they express themselves or what they choose to wear.

"Pink Boy" is an emotionally powerful and thought-provoking documentary that challenges us to think deeply about the role that gender plays in our lives. It's a film that encourages empathy and understanding, and that reminds us of the importance of embracing diversity in all its forms.