As an organization committed to the safety and inclusion of LGBTQ+ students and teachers FAM is frustrated to hear about the recent events at Skyridge high school. A teacher was harassed and forced to take down a pride flag in her classroom after a parent saw a picture of it on a social media account.

People will argue that pride flags are a political symbol but there is nothing political about someones identity. It is always frustrating when a district prioritize a few very vocal parents over the comfort and safety of students and teachers.

LGBTQ+ students disproportionally experience bullying and discrimination in schools and inclusive symbols such as pride flags are a great way to show support for these marginalized individuals. When a student sees a pride flag in their classroom, they know they are in a safe and supportive learning environment.

LGBTQ+ students have stronger academic outcomes and better emotional health when schools are inclusive and affirming and the students feel safe and like they belong.

When schools remove pride symbols the message students get is that they don’t belong and their identity and safety is not important.

FAM supports the efforts of Skyridge High School in getting pride flags put back up in their school.