Listen to Ohio Youth: Oppose Anti-LGBTQ+ Resolutions Proposed by State Board of Education Members
For the third month in a row, CDF-Ohio testified during the Ohio State Board of Education meeting against proposals being considered that would undermine the ability for K-12 schools to be inclusive educational environments for all children.
During Tuesday’s public comment, CDF-Ohio’s CJ Murphy spoke towards the harm posed by the resolution considered from their perspective as a parent, former teacher, and queer person.
“Ohio’s youth deserve to feel safe, valued, respected, and cared for in their schools,” said CJ Murphy during testimony. “They also deserve to be listened to – how many young people have been where I am right now over the past two months, missed school to share with you their personal stories and the fears they have should any version of this harmful resolution pass? Enough is enough. You have the opportunity to lift up LGBTQ+ students, protect them from abuse and neglect, and ensure their access to quality care and education; the way to do that is to listen to them and oppose this harmful resolution and any amendments or revisions to it.”
Watch a recording of the meeting here in case you missed it.
Fortunately, the Board did not vote on this resolution during the meeting this week, but it will be discussed again and possibly voted on during the State Board’s last meeting of the year on December 13th. Here’s what you can do to help:
- Make plans to attend the December meeting. While opportunities to provide public comment are not certain as of yet, being there in person to show solidarity against this harmful resolution is important. Stay up to date with meeting details and announcements by subscribing to the Honesty for Ohio Education listserv.
- Sign on to the petition to stop state-based discrimination in Ohio schools. Sign your name and share the petition with your network.
- Contact your local board of education members. Tell your local board of education why you oppose this resolution and urge them to sign on to a letter with other members to protect LGBTQ+ youth and children.