Hello Secular Supporter, An important measure was passed July 28th Washington Elementary School District board meeting: a resolution affirming LGBTQ+ students and staff. The two-page declaration recognizes the “chilling effect” of recent Christian nationalist legislation—which causes confusion and fear around LGBTQ+ affirming actions—and resolves to create a welcoming and safe environment. It also resolves to amend all district policies that include language about sex, sexual orientation, transgender status to include gender identity and expression. This was a great idea, and we applaud the WESD board members who approved it: Nikkie Whaley, Jenni Abbott-Bayardi, Bill Adams, and Lindsey M Peterson. (Member Tee Lambert abstained.) Secular AZ board member Sami Al-Asady took part in the meeting—his first ever—and wrote: “During politically turbulent times, it is easy to allow the feeling of helplessness to take over. However […] I left knowing that my small but important contribution to the public discourse can potentially prevent, for thousands of Washington Elementary School District students, the distress I felt as a queer person navigating the education system feeling alone.” Read more on our blog here. |
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