As a lesbian student, I daily face harassment and rejection because of my sexual orientation. I’m targeted simply for having the heart to love who I choose to. Unfortunately, this is not a unique experience within our education system. It is estimated that 74.2% of LGBT people and 80.6% of gender non-conforming students report experiencing some form of peer harassment at school. (GLSEN, 2017 National School Climate Survey). This highlights a serious lack of understanding and acceptance for queer students within our schools.

Our education curriculums heavily lack in equipping students with an understanding of diverse sexual orientations and identities. Not only is this limiting for queer students who need support in understanding their identities, but also perpetuates a culture of ignorance and prejudice among students who identify as heterosexual.

We are appealing to the national and local education authorities to introduce comprehensive LGBTQ+ education programs into the curricula of all schools. This would include guidance and support for queer students in developing a positive sense of their identity, as well as educating all students about the spectrum of sexual orientation and gender identity.

Furthermore, we are urging the implementation of clear and effective policies to protect LGBTQ+ students from any form of harassment or prejudice. The system must reinforce that love is love, regardless of gender or sexual orientation, and advocate for the rights and respect of all students.

We must create an environment in schools where everyone feels safe, understood, and accepted for who they are. Stand with us for the rights of this overlooked community of students. Please sign this petition to help fight for freedom of expression for all students, regardless of their sexual orientation.