Back to school is just around the corner and while it’s an exciting time for many students, for kids in the 2SLGBTQI+ community it can bring added fear, stress and anxiety.
Of those, 62 per cent report feeling unsafe walking the halls of their own schools according to a recent national survey.
That’s a concern for It Gets Better Canada, a group dedicated to fostering a caring school community.
Executive director Omid Razavi says school can be challenging and confusing for students who are having trouble relating to their peers.
Omid Razavi – It Gets Better Canada (Ashbury College/Facebook)
He says intolerance and the political climate in some jurisdictions makes it even harder for some kids.
“Or, if your access to safe and affirming spaces is at risk, which is what we’re seeing in unfortunately anti-2SLGBTQI+ laws and policies in some provinces, harmful rhetoric from political leaders and hate crimes on the rise.”
“It’s never been more important to be vocal about the needs of 2SLGBTQI+ youth and how we can support them.”
Listen to “Omid Razavi – It Gets Better Canada” on Spreaker.
