Making schools in our nation
safe for all youth, but particularly for gay, lesbian, bisexual and
transgender (GLBT) young people, has long been among PFLAG's top
priorities. In 2000, PFLAG launched its multi-year From Our
House to the Schoolhouse safe schools campaign because we
recognize that schools are "ground zero" in our efforts to curb
homophobia. GLBT youth, or those perceived to be, face unspeakable
harassment and abuse in schools and are too often effectively denied
access to a safe and equal education opportunity. The school culture
that fosters and sustains this hostile environment impacts all
students negatively. The average high school student hears 25
anti-gay slurs daily; 97 percent of high school students regularly
hear homophobic remarks. This harassment takes its toll: Gay
students are far more likely to skip classes, drop out of school
and/or commit suicide.
PFLAG makes schools safer in
ways nobody else can. As families, our voices carry tremendous
weight in schools. And because PFLAG is in over 500 communities in
the nation, our work is localized, reaching even some of the
smallest schools in rural America. Numerous PFLAG chapters also host
youth groups or partner with other community organizations that do.
Activities range from hosting rap groups, helping to coordinate
special social events or community projects to partnering with safe
schools activities. Chapters considering building this kind of work
into their projects and programs should read PFLAG NATIONALS Youth
Group Guidelines.
