ACTION ALERT: SUPPORT THE INCLUSIVE SCHOOLS ACT

Action Alert!

We need your help to support critical legislation that protects LGBTQ students in public schools across Maryland. Email or call members of the Ways and Means Committee to show your support, and contact your local legislators. Don’t know who they are? No problem, you can find them here!

The Inclusive Schools Act will codify anti-discrimination protections for all students, Pre-K-12 who are enrolled in our public schools and in schools receiving public funding. It prohibits retaliation against a student, parent, or guardian who files a complaint of discrimination. This legislation establishes a complaint and remedy process by which a student and/or their family can work with MSDE to resolve the discriminatory action. The bill also requires school boards and schools to develop written policies for schools, employees, and students regarding civil rights protections

You can learn more about the bill here.

House of Delegates Ways and Means Committee // HB 1204 Hearing Date: 02/26/2020 at 1:00 p.m.

Sample Script:

My name is _________ and I live in _______. I am calling/emailing in support of SB993/HB1204. This bill would enshrine the Maryland State Department of Education’s existing non-discrimination guidance for LGBTQ students into law. This law is crucial in providing students with a safe, affirming and inclusive environment to learn and express themselves without fear of violence, discrimination or retaliation. Currently, LGBTQ students are more likely to experience discrimination and harassment in schools with catastrophic consequences: according to the CDC, LGBT students commit suicide at a rate five times higher than their heterosexual and cisgender peers. This law would force schools to explicitly develop policies to protect LGBTQ students and provide pathways to file complaints and resolve cases of discrimination. We believe that our schools should be safe, healthy and supportive environments so that all students can learn and succeed. This law brings us one step closer towards realizing this value.