GLSEN has released state-level data from its benchmark National School Climate Survey which shows that Massachusetts schools are not safe for most LGBTQ middle & high school students. In addition many LGBTQ students in Massachusetts do not have access to important school resources such as an LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum & were not protected by supportive & inclusive school policies. Trenda Loftin, Co-Chair GLSEN Massachusetts stated, “This research makes clear that many LGBTQ students in Massachusetts still face hostile school environments, many of which lack the resources to ensure their safety. In order to prioritize the safety & well-being of all students, leaders throughout the state of Massachusetts must support comprehensive policies & practices that are inclusive & affirming of LGBTQ students. ” Since 1999 GLSEN’s biennial National School Climate Survey has consistently demonstrated that specific school-based supports are related to a safer & more inclusive school climate, including supportive educators, LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum, comprehensive & affirming policies & student clubs, such as Gay-Straight Alliances or Gender and Sexuality Alliances (GSAs). Data released shows the majority of LGBTQ students in Massachusetts regularly heard anti-LGBTQ remarks with 72% of LGBTQ students reported regularly hearing homophobic remarks in school & 64% reported regularly hearing negative remarks about transgender people. Some students also regularly heard school staff make homophobic remarks (10%) & many regularly heard school staff make negative remarks about someone’s gender expression (29%). Nearly half of students (45%) experienced at least one form of anti-LGBTQ discrimination at school during the past year.
For More Info: glsen.org
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