Living in Florida has been challenging for parents of LGBTQ+ youth due to extremist political actions and policies that target this demographic. Recent initiatives, particularly the 'Don't Say LGBTQ+' law, have resulted in increased bullying and harassment within schools. Parents are calling for change, participating in actions like GLSEN's Day of No Silence to highlight the issues faced by LGBTQ+ students. A recent legal victory has provided some relief, restoring rights to free expression, but the ongoing political climate remains a concern for advocates fighting for equality.
Living in Florida as the parent of LGBTQ+ youth for the past few years has been exhausting. Extremist politicians and special interest groups have masqueraded as protectors of parents' rights in a ruthless quest to silence the increasing diversity of Generation Z.
Recent data from GLSEN's National School Climate Survey shows that 83% of LGBTQ+ youth are bullied or harassed at school and 59% of LGBTQ+ youth face discriminatory policies or practices at school.
In Florida, we've seen this firsthand. The 'Don't Say LGBTQ+' law passed in 2022 started as a targeted restriction for grades K-3, but it evolved into a comprehensive crackdown on free expression.
We all fought back, and a legal settlement last year nullified most of the law's efforts to silence expression related to LGBTQ+ identity.
Collection
[
|
...
]