'i am constantly surrounded by homophobia within my family and at school. '


'i am constantly surrounded by homophobia within my family and at school. '

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A study by the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network found that 85% of LGBTQ students have experienced verbal harassment, 66% have been discriminated against, and 98% heard “gay”


being used as a derogatory term. As a proud Black queer student, I know these issues impact my academics and mental health. I am constantly surrounded by homophobia within my family and at


school. I struggled to feel like I belonged. Many LGBTQ students miss school, avoid bathrooms and locker rooms, or have lower grade point averages. LGBTQ issues on campus are overlooked, and


I strongly believe schools should bring more awareness to this. Most if not all schools should have Gay-Straight Alliance, Gender-Sexuality Alliance or Queer–Straight Alliance clubs that


create a safe space for LGBTQ kids. Schools should treat our issues the same way they enforce no-gum or dress code policies. There should be zero tolerance for homophobia. Make traditional


cis-straight events like prom or homecoming more inclusive, and create areas for trans and nonbinary students in locker rooms and bathrooms. I believe the main root of homophobia is due to


ignorance and stereotyping, and if we educate students and staff, we can create a safer environment for all students. MORE TO READ