A bi-annual survey by GLSEN (the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network) has found that many schools are not safe for most lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students in Florida.
Findings from the survey show that 9 out of 10 people use the word “gay” and other remarks in a negative way while at school.
Major findings in the survey show that schools nationwide also have hostile environments with 74 percent of students being verbally harassed because of their sexual orientation.
Over 30 percent of students said they missed at least one day of school because they did not feel comfortable attending.
Along with students being verbally harassed, there have been physical incidents that students experienced. More than three in 10 students said they were pushed or shoved and one in 10 said they were punched, kicked or injured with a weapon.
There are several things that can be done to help prevent bullying and harassment. GLSEN recommends the following:
- Implement comprehensive school anti-bullying/harassment policies;
- Support Gay-Straight Alliances;
- Provide professional development for school staff on LGBT student issues; and
- Increase student access to LGBT-inclusive curricular resources.
