Make schools inclusive

Regarding “After a yearlong Pride flag fallout, Bay Area school board members face a recall vote” (California, SFChronicle.com, July 2): As a queer student, it is shocking to see the conservative push to erase the presence of LGBTQ+ students in schools. 

Because the LGBTQ+ community has been historically marginalized, it is important to make schools more inclusive. Queer people exist in schools as much as they exist elsewhere. 

Flags are an important symbol of visibility, and displaying Pride flags at schools simply fosters an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated, helping students feel valued and accepted. 

Many queer students are scared to live authentically and freely because they fear being shamed. LGBTQ+ students experience higher rates of bullying, discrimination and mental health issues than their straight counterparts, so why not make schools a place of safety and belonging?

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Make Schools Inclusive

By Jules Pizano | SF Chroncicle| July 5th, 2024