I, like many others, identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community and as a therian. Struggling to understand our own identities without proper education, along with dealing with hate and ridicule, can be devastating. I have firsthand experience with the pain this environment inflicts – the ignorance and hate have driven me to consider taking my own life.

In the U.S., it is estimated that lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth are four times more likely to attempt suicide (The Trevor Project). A lack of adequate health education to help LGBTQIA+ students understand and care for themselves plays a significant role in these numbers. With inclusive health education, we can equip these students with the knowledge they need to navigate their lives more confidently.

Therians – individuals who identify as non-human in some way – face similar difficulties. They are often subject to ridicule, unkind remarks, and even threats. The trauma from such experiences can be life-threatening; a call for change is long overdue.

Let's strive to build educational structures that understand the unique health requirements of LGBTQIA+ students and respect all identity expressions, including therians. Schools must do more than simply acknowledge these groups; they must actively work to provide a safe, supportive, and informative environment.

We call upon educational policymakers across the nation to mandate an inclusive health curriculum for LGBTQIA+ students, initiating policies that prohibit hate and discrimination targeted at therians in schools.

Sign this petition to make our schools safer, more understanding, and supportive for every student.