The Issues:
Youth Issues
Although LGBT youth today often have more resources about coming out and living a healthy LGBT life than past generations have had available to them, homophobia is still prevalent in many schools and LGBT youth continue to be disparately affected by depression, suicide, harassment and homelessness.
Coupled with damaging "reparative therapy programs," bullying, concerns about physical safety and verbal harassment, LGBT students are often unable to perform academically and socially. At the same time, research has shown that, with positive staff, access to a Gay/Straight Alliance (GSA), and LGBT-inclusive anti-bullying policies, LGBT students are more successful and happy in school.
- GLSEN's School Climate Survey
- Gay/Straight Alliances:
- Click here for a list of registered Gay/Straight Alliances in Maryland.
- Interested in starting a Gay/Straight Alliance at your high school? Click here for the eight-step program.
- LGBT Youth and Homelessness
- Maryland School Anti-Abuse Law
- “Reparative Therapy”
- Links and Other Resources
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