Some of these include assuming someone’s sexuality or gender when first meeting them, which contributes to outdated social norms about femininity and masculinity. In 2021, the Trevor Project found that 42% of LGBTQ+ youth seriously considered attempting suicide.ĭespite one’s best intentions to be supportive, some allies can still do things that are harmful to the LGBTQ+ community. Among LGBTQ+ students, those that have experienced discrimination based on their identity are twice as likely to attempt suicide. A 2017 study by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN), an organization working to end discrimination, harassment, and bullying of LGBTQ+ people, showed that nine out of ten students in California middle and high schools hear homophobic remarks at school. The statistics show that LGBTQ+ students still face prejudice in school. Many consider the Bay Area to be one of the more open-minded places in the United States, so why do some LGBTQ+ students still feel uncomfortable with the environment at M-A? This Pride Month, I hope to highlight the experiences and struggles of LGBTQ+ students on our campus.
Editor’s Note: The following is a guest opinion from freshman Mira Tian.
