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It has been a big year.
Just 6 months ago, the voters of Washington State said yes to marriage equality. Since then legislatures in other states have also said yes to full equality for their LGBTQ citizens. Just months ago we heard an articulate and compelling case argued for overturning DOMA before the US Supreme Court, with a decision expected soon.
Yes, for LGBTQ adults, it has gotten better. But
how has this progress impacted young people? Has the harassment in school stopped? Is the isolation less acute, the loneliness less painful? Sadly no. While some urban school communities may publically support LGBTQ youth and families, far too many students face continued violence. The dropout (or non-graduation) rate, and well as that of homelessness, drug and alcohol abuse and even suicide for LGBTQ students still far outpaces that of their peers.
We cannot be content with our progress until no student faces physical or emotional violence based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
And you can bring us closer to that reality by participating in Give Big. All donations made that day on The Seattle Foundation's website from 12:01 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on May 15 will be partially matched by The Seattle Foundation and GiveBig sponsors. Last year the "stretch pool" totaled $800,000! The more you give, the greater share of that pool will go to making schools safe places for all children to learn and thrive.
You could be our Golden Ticket! Throughout the day of GiveBig, donors will be chosen at random to have an additional $1,000 added to their contribution.
For 25 years, Safe Schools Coalition has been a leader in fighting all forms of anti-gay bullying in schools. We have accomplished this through training, intervention and building public awareness. With your support, we will continue and expand our services to make schools welcoming, safe places for all children to learn and thrive. Please mark your calendar now to Give Big to Safe Schools Coalition on May 15.
Thank you,
Your Friends at Safe Schools Coalition
PS We know you will be asked to support many worthwhile causes that day. As you decide where to contribute, we hope you will remember our youth.
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