I want to start an LGBTQ+ support group at Laurens District 55 High School. Students who are members of the LGBTQ+ community have different struggles than those who are not, as most are the result of discrimination, abuse, neglect, and bullying BECAUSE of their sexual/romantic orientation or their gender identity. This group would provide them with resources and the means to communicate with professionals who could help them through these struggles, and also provide them with a group of like-minded peers as a welcoming and warm chosen family. 

While this petition is up, I’m writing a letter to Mrs. Faulkner regarding the support group. I think having a visual representation of students who feel they would benefit from this group would help to sway her decision to support this group’s establishment or not. 

During my time being a student in the Laurens District 55 school district, I’ve heard and seen terrible things said and done to people who are openly queer, and I know that having a group of people who would support and accept these people would make it a lot easier. I myself identify as queer, and I’ve had things said to me that have made me feel uncomfortable, unsafe, and threatened. I’ve had friends to turn to, but not everyone has that luxury. This group would be a way to meet like minded people and hopefully find a place for yourself in the community and in the world, because everyone does have a place.