For many, school can be a terrifying place because of bullying, harassment and discrimination. All students deserve a safe and supportive place to learn, including those who are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT).
Iowa Safe Schools works to create safe and supportive learning environments and communities for lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender youth through outreach, education and advocacy. This week, the organization hosted the Governor’s Conference on LGBT Youth.
Founded in 2006, the state’s annual conference is the largest of its kind nationally. More than 900 people from 90 Iowa communities attended in 2013, including students, educators, counselors, lawmakers, parents, faith leaders and others who care about the wellbeing of our young people. The mission of this annual conference is to engage and educate Iowans about LGBT issues, and to encourage networking and activism that promote diversity, equality and social justice.
In 2007, the Legislature approved a bill that required school districts to have anti-bullying policies, and to collect and report data on incidents of bullying and harassment. It was heralded as one of the best policies in the country at the time.
Governor Branstad has pushed for expanded anti-bullying initiatives, including cracking down on cyberbullying. We support the Governor’s efforts. That’s why we voted this session to strengthen our state’s anti-bullying laws.
Senate File 2318 establishes the Office of Support & Analysis for Safe Schools to coordinate and implement efforts to prevent and respond to harassment and bullying. Competitive grants will promote high-quality bully prevention and positive school climate programs for the Iowa schools most in need.
The House has yet to take up the bill, but it is my hope that our efforts, along with those of communities, schools and organizations like Iowa Safe Schools, can eliminate bullying and inspire acceptance and understanding among all Iowans.
You can learn more about the work of Iowa Safe Schools at www.iowasafeschools.org.