- United States
- Ariz.
- Letter
I urge you to oppose bills that create hostile environments for LGBTQ+ students in schools. Measures like forced outing of students' gender identities or sexual orientations, requiring use of birth names/pronouns that don't align with a student's identity, and other policies that target and marginalize queer and transgender youth are extremely harmful. These discriminatory practices significantly increase risks of depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicide among an already vulnerable population. Schools must be inclusive, affirmative spaces that allow all students to learn safely and authentically. Protecting LGBTQ+ youth and fostering acceptance should be a top priority. I implore you to stand against any legislation promoting bigotry under the guise of parental rights that instead enables abuse and alienation of children. The well-being and lives of students are at stake.