FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
5/27/2024
Riverside LGBTQ+ Pride Signs On To Support Assembly Bill 1955: Support Academic Futures & Educators for Today's Youth (SAFETY) Act
Riverside, CA — Riverside LGBTQ+ Pride has signed an open letter in support of Assembly Bill 1955, the Support Academic Futures & Educators for Today's Youth Act. Joining 104 other local organizations who support the bill, the letter was sent to Josh Newman, the chair of the Senate Committee on Education urging him to support the bill. This crucial legislation aims to strengthen California's protections against the forced outing of LGBTQ+ students in schools, ensuring a safer and more supportive educational environment for all students.
In a statement, Riverside Pride’s Advocacy Director explained why this bill is vital to the health of students: “As we have seen over the last year in the Inland Empire and across the country, efforts to forcibly out trans youth continue to threaten the rights and safety of our students. AB 1955 is a significant step forward in protecting the privacy and dignity of LGBTQ+ youth. It addresses the critical need for safeguards that prevent the involuntary disclosure of a student's sexual orientation or gender identity, which can lead to devastating consequences, including discrimination, harassment, and even family rejection.”
Studies consistently show LGBTQ+ youth make up the majority of young people experiencing homelessness due to mistreatment at home or who fear being kicked out of their home due to their LGBTQ+ identity.
Cavett continued, “Riverside Pride recognizes the profound impact that a supportive and understanding school environment has on the mental health and academic success of LGBTQ+ students. This bill not only reinforces California's commitment to equality and inclusion but also empowers educators to create a more respectful and safe atmosphere for all students to thrive.” The bill, which was coauthored by 14 legislators, including Assembly Members Chris Ward (D), Sabrina Cervantes (D) and Corey Jackson (D).
Together, we can create a future where every student in California, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can pursue their education free from fear and with the full support of their school community.
For a copy of the letter sent by 105 organizations click here: https://riverside.lgbt/ab1955pdf [PDF]
For more information on Assembly Bill 1955, please visit https://riverside.lgbt/ab1955facts [PDF] or contact Riverside Pride to learn what you can do to support.
Riverside LGBTQ+ Pride (aka: “Riverside Pride”) is a 100% volunteer 501(c)(3) non-profit charity working to inspire, educate, commemorate and celebrate our diverse Riverside community. For more information about Riverside LGBTQ+ Pride, contact Troy Yu at (951) 554-0783 or gro.E1719818293Iedir1719818293Pedis1719818293reviR1719818293@yorT1719818293 .
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Related Links:
Website: www.Riverside.lgbt