Introduction to the Issue
The recent passage of Senate Bill 12 in Texas has caused concern among LGBTQ students and advocates. The bill targets diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, leading to the elimination of LGBTQ clubs and the prohibition of teachers from using students’ preferred names and pronouns in some schools.
The Impact on LGBTQ Students
Hayden Cohen, a nonbinary student who came out during their junior year in Houston ISD, had a positive experience with a welcoming school environment. However, they now see the negative impact of Senate Bill 12 on LGBTQ students. Cohen, the state policy director for Students Engaged in Advancing Texas, said, "Unfortunately, the thing I’ve heard most is ‘My club’s no longer allowed to function.’" Some schools are allowing LGBTQ clubs to continue, but with restrictions, such as changing their name and mission statement.
The Author’s Perspective
State Senator Brandon Creighton, who authored the bill, frames it as a common-sense law that puts parents in charge of their children’s education. He believes that parents should be the primary decision-makers when it comes to their child’s education. However, advocates for LGBTQ youth argue that the bill has caused confusion and harm to students who rely on these initiatives for support and inclusivity.
School Districts’ Responses
Several school districts, including Houston ISD and Katy ISD, are defendants in a lawsuit challenging Senate Bill 12. Houston ISD declined to comment on its implementation of the law, citing the ongoing lawsuit. Katy ISD’s board of trustees passed a resolution that prevents employees from assisting students with "social transitioning" and bans school-sponsored LGBTQ clubs. Other districts, such as Fort Bend ISD, Cy-Fair ISD, and Conroe ISD, are assessing the law to determine how to comply with its new requirements.
The Chilling Effects of the Bill
Marshall Romero, a trans junior in Alief ISD, said that while his teachers continue to recognize his gender identity and use his pronouns, he has felt the chilling effects of the bill. "I’m very fortunate to be in the situation I’m in, but we definitely have had to limit discussions, just out of fear of things that could happen from the state," he said. The bill has created a climate of fear and uncertainty, where students and teachers are hesitant to discuss LGBTQ issues or provide support to LGBTQ students.
Alternative Support Systems
JuJu Faragher, a youth services specialist at the Montrose Center, a resource hub for Houston’s LGBTQ residents, encouraged students who may no longer have access to LGBTQ resources at school to check out the center’s programming for youth. The center provides a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQ students to connect with others who share similar experiences. Faragher emphasized the importance of community and connection for LGBTQ youth, saying, "It’s about community. It’s about being able to connect with people who are going through similar experiences."
Considering the Needs of All Parents and Students
Mandy Giles, the co-founder of Parents of Trans Youth, argued that the bill overlooks the needs of parents who want their children to have a supportive and inclusive experience at school. "I think it’s ignoring those parents that want their kids to have a supportive experience at school, and a well-rounded experience," she said. Giles also emphasized the importance of providing safe spaces for LGBTQ youth who may not be supported at home. "For some kids, school is the only safe place they have," she said. "And when you take those away, then there’s no safe place for some of these kids."
Conclusion
The passage of Senate Bill 12 has had a significant impact on LGBTQ students in Texas, leading to the elimination of LGBTQ clubs and the restriction of teachers’ ability to support LGBTQ students. While some school districts are working to comply with the law, others are pushing back against its requirements. It is essential to consider the! needs of all parents and students, including those who are LGBTQ, and to provide safe and inclusive spaces for all students to thrive. By listening to the voices of LGBTQ youth and advocating for their rights, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students in Texas.
