The Importance of Safeguarding LGBTQIA+ Students Should Be Unquestioned

Many students are returning to classrooms after an extended break, and while children are often adaptable, the ongoing uncertainties surrounding COVID-19 have made this transition anything but typical. The return to school, which should feel like a routine occurrence, is overshadowed by debates about masking and potential quarantines, leaving students anxious as they attempt to maintain a positive outlook for the academic year.

For LGBTQIA+ students, these challenges are compounded by their unique experiences. The pandemic has disproportionately affected queer youth, and schools must take proactive steps to ensure that learning environments are safe and inclusive. Research indicates that LGBTQIA+ students face increased rates of bullying, anxiety, and mental health struggles compared to their cisgender heterosexual peers. According to a recent survey from The Trevor Project, 80% of LGBTQ youth reported that COVID-19 worsened their living situations, while over half stated that the pandemic limited their ability to express their sexuality. Many nonbinary and transgender youth also felt their authenticity was stifled during this time. For some, the isolation prompted a period of self-reflection, leading to coming out, but for others, the lack of acceptance at home means school must serve as a refuge.

It should never be deemed contentious or unnecessary to actively protect LGBTQIA+ students. Schools have a duty to uphold the rights of all queer students, especially those who are transgender, nonbinary, or gender nonconforming. Unfortunately, some states and school districts have chosen to side with discrimination, imposing restrictions on where transgender students can use bathrooms and barring transgender athletes, particularly transgender girls, from participating in sports. Such anti-trans legislation adds to the obstacles these students face upon returning to school.

Statistics reveal that 70% of LGBTQ students experience verbal harassment due to their sexual orientation, yet only 26% of those surveyed feel safe in their classrooms. Alarmingly, just 5% reported that all their teachers and staff are supportive of queer individuals. This situation is unacceptable and preventable.

Implementing inclusivity training for school staff, establishing robust anti-discrimination policies, and fostering a strong stance against bullying based on gender identity and expression are critical. Providing diverse literature and inclusive health education, along with adopting gender-neutral language and dress codes, can significantly improve the school climate for LGBTQIA+ students. Even having one supportive adult can drastically lower the risk of harm for queer youth; a teacher can be that essential ally.

No student should endure heteronormative defaults or feel punished for not conforming to society’s assumptions about gender and sexuality. Expectations should not force students into outdated stereotypes or rigid thinking. If educators cannot embrace these principles, they should reconsider their roles in the education system.

Both parents and LGBTQIA+ students have the right to advocate for inclusive policies. Recently, the U.S. Department of Justice, the U.S. Department of Education, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services issued a statement addressing the challenges transgender students face. This initiative highlights their worth and rights, while underscoring the risks posed when schools neglect these issues. Resources for LGBTQIA+ students and avenues for filing complaints were also provided.

The mounting attacks on transgender individuals, combined with the mental health challenges exacerbated by the pandemic, create a heavy burden for LGBTQIA+ youth. If students return to schools that overlook their needs for inclusivity and safety, they will not receive equitable learning experiences or the support they require. Schools must take immediate action to ease these transitions for queer students.

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In summary, protecting LGBTQIA+ students is essential and should never be a point of contention. Schools must foster inclusive environments to support all students, particularly those who are marginalized. By implementing necessary policies and training, educators can create a safer and more supportive atmosphere that allows every student to thrive.

Keyphrase: LGBTQIA+ student protection

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