I am writing to thank you for
the National Education Association's (NEA) commitment to addressing the
pervasive anti-gay harassment and discrimination faced by lesbian, gay,
bisexual and transgender (LGBT) students, teachers and other education
employees.
The Task Force on Sexual Orientation's recommendations adopted
by the NEA Board of Director's illustrates an important move toward embracing
the wide-ranging diversity in school communities. It is also an
important step toward ending discrimination of this vulnerable
population.
As you know, LGBT students and education employees
face overwhelming discrimination and harassment in US schools.
According to the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network's (GLSEN) 2001
National School Climate Survey, four out of five LGBT students report verbal,
sexual or physical harassment in schools. Even more disheartening is the
reality that teachers and other school staff are often apprehensive about
defending their rights and the rights of LGBT students for fear of reprisals.
The NEA's organizational commitment to developing resources on these issues
and advocacy for adoption of policies to protect LGBT students and
education employees will help to ensure that all teachers and school
staff, regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity, will feel
empowered to protect their rights and those of LGBT students.
Through
the comprehensive work of the task force and the support of the Board of
Directors, the NEA has taken a significant step toward ensuring that all
students, teachers and school staff learn and work in an environment free of
discrimination and harassment. I truly appreciate your personal
commitment to making schools safe for all students regardless of sexual
orientation and gender identity.