GLSEN Stands In Solidarity with Jack Petocz and ‘Say Gay!’ Student Walkouts

March 4, 2022

GLSEN Stands In Solidarity with Jack Petocz and ‘Say Gay!’ Student Walkouts

Melanie Willingham-Jaggers (they/she), GLSEN Executive Director:

“Thousands of students across the state of Florida sent a strong message to Florida lawmakers by organizing peaceful student walkouts against HB 1557, the discriminatory ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill that seeks to erase LGBTQ+ history and culture from lesson plans and classrooms. GLSEN stands in solidarity with Jack Petocz and all student activists in Florida for their bravery fighting against this dangerous bill.

“It’s impossible to ignore the chilling effect that this bill has already had on LGBTQ+ communities since it was introduced, not only to Florida’s LGBTQ+ community, but for LGBTQ+ youth and families across the nation. The student walkout is a clear message to Governor Ron DeSantis and other lawmakers seeking to erase the LGBTQ+ community, that young people will not be silenced or erased and that there is no place for bigotry or discrimination in the classroom.

“It’s time to listen to the voices of the young people who the ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill will affect the most and to applaud them for rising up to make their voices heard: ‘Say Gay!’ We’ll continue to support organizers on the ground as they lead the fight for inclusive and affirming schools in Florida.”