Homosexuality still stands to be a major issue for most countries in the world. 72 countries and territories worldwide continue to criminalize same-sex relationships, including 45 in which sexual relationships between women are outlawed. There are also 8 countries where one can die for identifying as LGBTQ and more where engaging in relationships with the same gender can lead to serving time in prison. Southern and east Africa, the Middle East and south Asia continue with cruel approaches whereas western Europe and the western hemisphere are most tolerant.
According to the CDC, suicide is the third leading cause of death among people age 10 to 24 in the United States. Moreover, LGB youths in grades 7-12 are twice as likely to attempt suicide than their heterosexual peers. Why? It’s because depression affects LGBT people at higher rates than the heterosexual population. The GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network) released a report in 2013 which stated that 55% of LGBT youth feel unsafe at school, 74% were verbally harassed and 16% were physically assaulted, all because of their sexual orientation. This hostility at school affects their academic and extracurricular performance negatively.
It’s hard overcoming the stigma, especially when it goes hand in hand with discrimination and assault. With a lack of acceptance and support from family and friends to express their sexuality freely, it has been reported that LGBTQ+ individuals feel ‘lost’ and ‘hopeless’. Although people have started to become more welcoming of diversity in sexual orientation, there is still scope for improvement. Society has marginalized homosexuality, which is not okay. How would you feel if every time you wanted to go on vacation, you had to verify whether you would die there or whether you’d be thrown in jail?
To overcome these problems, resources should be allocated in schools where the environment and attitudes towards LGBTQ youth would improve. This may include implementing clear policies against discrimination and harassment, fostering support groups, such as gay-straight alliances, implementing LGBT topics as part of the curriculum and, of course, a more supportive non-judgmental staff. As peers, one should be willing to talk openly with their comrades about any problems that they may be having. Just by listening would be a huge step towards progress.
Let your sexuality be your power. Stand up for yourself and soon, you’ll find that you’re not alone. If you need help, please ask for it. Too much blood has flown from the wrists of the children shamed for the person they chose to kiss
“There’s nothing wrong with you. There’s a lot wrong with the world you live in” - Chris Colfer