The Problem:
For every 1 youth who is bullied because of their actual sexual orientation or gender expression – 4 straight kids are bullied because of their perceived sexual orientation or gender expression. Across America, youth violence and discrimination in the classroom and on the streets is robbing our future.
- 20 percent to 40 percent of the U.S. homeless teen population is comprised of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth. (While Inside/Out is not a residential shelter, we have provided safety, acceptance and support to 22 homeless youth so far in 2010.)
- Nearly 9 out of 10 LGBT students nationwide experience harassment at school because of their sexual orientation or gender expression. (Gay Lesbian & Straight Education Network, 2007 National School Climate Survey)
- Truancy rates are 5 times higher among LGBT students. One third of LGBT students miss school monthly because they feel unsafe (GLSEN)
- LGBT youth who are rejected by their families are 9 times more likely to attempt suicide than their heterosexual peers (Inside/Out provides suicide prevention services and an accepting community to reduce this number)
The Hope:
- Our support programs and outreach to create more inclusive schools and agencies makes a difference.
- Gay, Straight Alliances in schools improve physical safety, academic performance and add a sense of belonging for all students.
- Students from schools with harassment policies that specify sexual orientation and gender expression skip school less often and are less frequently harassed.
The Vision:
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Questioning youth are safe, feel a sense of connection and have the skills and tools they need to chart their own destinies. Society affirms their worth as individuals and as participants in the community.
