SANTA ANA, Calif.—
Last Friday, the LGBTQ Center OC was informed about a public forum scheduled for Wednesday, September 18, at the Phoenix Club in Anaheim. Upon reading a list of discussion topics, it is apparent the forum contains misinformation that relates to comprehensive sexual health and ethnic studies education for students in California public schools.
The LGBTQ Center OC condemns this forum and stands in support of the advocacy work accomplished by its organizing body of youth, students, parents, families, teachers, and community members from Youth First Orange County.
In response to the upcoming forum, members from Youth First Orange County state:
“As a fourteen-year public school health teacher, it is imperative to call out false and misleading information being shared about sex education at forums like these. One aim of comprehensive sexual health education is to increase the safety and health of all students by dispelling myths, highlighting inclusivity, and promoting tolerance. This aim is especially important for LGBTQQ+ youth in Orange County, who according to researchers at Chapman University, experience staggering disparities in education and health outcomes as compared to their peers. It is clear that more needs to be done for LGBTQQ+ students and the California Healthy Youth Act is one big step in the right direction. For the benefit of all students, let’s keep this momentum going.
— Kelli Bourne, Health & Science Teacher, Irvine Unified School District
“Despite this common knowledge, Orange County continues to see groups of persistent and disgruntled parents who are willfully spreading misinformation regarding the content and implementation of the law. These actions are disturbing, counter-productive, and endanger our students. Young people of all sexual orientations and gender identities have a right to medically-accurate, quality sexual health information. All kids need help navigating puberty, body changes, and safe, healthy relationships. Every student deserves to feel safe, welcome, and acknowledged at school. LGBTQQ students thrive when they see themselves reflected in lessons and learn that it is entirely normal for people to have different sexual orientations or gender identities. Inclusive lessons create a positive effect on all students and reduce bullying, discrimination, and harassment. Comprehensive sex ed gives students the knowledge and confidence they need to make healthy decisions. As a registered nurse and health care advocate, I will continue to use my voice to spread accurate information regarding AB329, as well as insist that my district and all districts in Orange County implement a comprehensive sex ed curriculum the follows the letter and spirit of the law.”
— Michele McNutt, CUSD Parent
The California Healthy Youth Act (AB-329) requires California public schools to provide comprehensive sexual health education to their student populations. Additionally, AB-329 was strengthened by the passage of AB-2601, which would require charter schools to also engage provide comprehensive sexual health education. As such, these laws ensures sexual health education remains comprehensive and accurate, while also addressing the eclectic needs of students of all genders, gender expressions, and sexual orientations. Comprehensive and inclusive education plays an essential role to empower students and to improve their overall health and academic success. It serves as an opportunity to bridge differences and to create safe and supportive learning environments for all students, including students who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQQ).
The LGBTQ Center OC will not tolerate actions and events of the above-mentioned forum, which engenders hatred for diverse community groups and stifles unbiased and inclusive education. We strive for Orange County to continue to move forward in support of all students so that they may persevere and thrive in their personal and academic trajectories.
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