LGBTQ+ Safe Space Stickers Banned By School District
The Kansas City Star.A gay graduate of the district, Travis Holt, told the outlet that the decision was “disheartening.”“I was honestly just kind of sickened by it, because as a society we’ve taken steps toward progress, and it honestly feels like a step backwards on the school board’s part,” Holt said. “That was my home.
I went to school there. And it’s hard to see. I found comfort with some of the teachers there, and that’s maybe not going to be the same for students going forward.”In a statement to The Star, Melanie Willingham-Jaggers, executive director of GLSEN, said, “Young people may feel less safe coming out in this current political climate, so it is critical for teachers and school staff to express their support for LGBTQ+ youth and create an environment where students can feel safe sharing their identity without judgment or harassment.”Willingham-Jaggers added, “This can include visible displays of support like putting up a safe space sticker or poster, or introducing yourself to your class with your pronouns.
It can also include highlighting books and resources with positive LGBTQ+ representation and discussion of LGBTQ+ history in classes.”The Advocate has reached out to Grain Valley Schools for comment.If you or someone you know are feeling distressed, call the National Suicide Hotline at (800) 273-8255.
