California became the first state in the U.S. to ban the forced outing of LGBTQ+ students when the state's governor signed the SAFETY Act into law in July 2024.

The act prohibits schools from enforcing policies that would require students to have their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression revealed without their consent. The act also protects teachers and other school employees from retaliation for refusing to obey policies that forcibly out LGBTQ+ students.

The California legislator, who introduced the bill, said "the SAFETY Act ensures that discussions about gender identity remain a private matter within the family." Zachary Schermele "California becomes first state to ban forced outing of LGBTQ+ students" www.usatoday.com (Jul. 16, 2024).

Commentary and Checklist

According to a 2022 GLSEN survey (glsen.org), 68 percent of LGBTQ students reported feeling unsafe at school due to hostility based on their gender identity or sexual orientation.

Other challenges include being bullied; discriminated against; isolated; threatened with conversion therapy – both by other students and educators.

How can schools create a safer environment for LGBTQ students?

• Have policies and procedures prohibiting bullying, harassment, and any violence against any student
• Have multiple types of reporting mechanisms and encourage reporting of any violations
• Encourage inclusion and respect for all students
• Conduct learning activities that help students understand each other
• Designate "safe spaces" where LGBTQ students can receive support from school staff, such as counselors' offices or designated classrooms