Texas lawmakers just passed a bill that bans LGBTQ+ student clubs in public schools. This includes Dallas. Senate Bill 12 claims to empower parents, but what it really does is erase students. It strips away safe spaces where young people come together, support each other, and feel seen—especially those who are already vulnerable.

In Dallas, these clubs have been more than after-school activities. They’ve been lifelines. Places where kids watch movies, talk honestly, and build friendships they can’t find anywhere else. For many, it’s the first time they’ve felt they weren’t alone. Now, those spaces are being taken away under the false claim that they’re “sexualizing” students.

Rep. Jessica González, a Dallas lawmaker and LGBTQ+ advocate, called this bill exactly what it is—an attempt to turn classrooms into closets. It tells LGBTQ+ students that they don’t belong, that their truth is too controversial to be acknowledged in school. But we know better. These students are not the problem. They are part of our city’s future.

We cannot stay silent. We demand that Dallas ISD, local leaders, and educators commit to protecting LGBTQ+ students in every way possible. That means finding ways to maintain safe spaces, offering inclusive support, and making sure our schools remain places where every student feels welcome.

Dallas can lead where the state has failed. Stand up now for our kids. Let them know this city still sees them, still values them, and will never let them be pushed into the shadows.

Sign this petition to protect LGBTQ+ student clubs and safe spaces in Dallas schools.

[Photo Credit: Glsen]