GLSEN Applauds Supreme Court Ruling on Marriage Equality

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Kari Hudnell Media Relations Manager press@glsen.org 646-388-6575

 GLSEN Applauds Supreme Court Ruling on Marriage Equality 

NEW YORK (June 26, 2015) – GLSEN’s Executive Director, Dr. Eliza Byard, applauded the decision handed down today by the Supreme Court of the United States in the case of Obergefell v. Hodges, granting same-sex couples the right to marry in all states.

“Today's Supreme Court decision is a huge step forward for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people, establishing the equality of our relationships before the law, in every state and county in the country. This is one of many important steps on the road to equality for LGBT Americans and sends a strong message, especially to youth, that LGBT families are equal to all others. This is an historic day for our country, for our communities and for families across America. It is a day for all of us to celebrate. When love and family prevail, we all win.”

The latest edition of GLSEN’s National School Climate Survey recently found that while school climate has improved somewhat since 1999, schools nationwide remain hostile environments for a distressing number of LGBT students and that a hostile school climate affects students’ academic success and mental health. Seventy-four percent of LGBT students were verbally harassed in the past year because of their sexual orientation and 55 percent because of their gender expression. As a result of feeling unsafe or uncomfortable, 30 percent missed at least one day of school in the past month.

About GLSEN

GLSEN is the leading national education organization focused on ensuring safe and affirming schools for all students. Celebrating its 25th year, GLSEN envisions a world in which every child learns to respect and accept all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. GLSEN seeks to develop school climates where difference is valued for the positive contribution it makes to creating a more vibrant and diverse community. For information on GLSEN's research, educational resources, public policy advocacy, student organizing programs and educator training initiatives, visit www.glsen.org.