The rate at which students use and hear negative language about
lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) people is huge.
Over half of all students report hearing homophobic remarks
often at school. The common use of anti-LGBT language is
directly related to an even bigger problem Ė the bullying and
harassment of LGBT students. 9 out of 10 LGBT students report
being harassed at school in the last year. Over one-third of
LGBT students have been physically assaulted at school because
of their sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. Such
frequent harassment results in LGBT students being more likely
than others to: - Feel unsafe - Miss school - Receive lower
grades - Not attend college Creating a safe environment for all
students - LGBT and straight alike - begins with one simple act:
thinking before you speak. A lot of anti-LGBT language is said
carelessly, and isnít intended as negative or hurtful.
Understand what youíre saying, and think about the potential
consequences of the words you choose.