SPLC Statement Observing Day of Silence

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Scott McCoy, SPLC Action Fund interim deputy legal director, LGBTQ Rights & Special Litigation, released the statement below observing Day of Silence on Friday, April 23:

“The overt discrimination that gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer students face daily continues to be a problem and is even exacerbated by bullying coming from our own elected officials.

“Making a statement by remaining silent is even more important this year when we have seen a record number – more than 100 – pieces of anti-LGBTQ legislation introduced in 33 states, including bills barring gender-affirming care for trans and nonbinary youth and prohibiting transgender student athletes from playing sports on teams that match their gender identity. This is despite the fact that 67% of Americans oppose such harmful and discriminatory bills.

“These efforts targeting LGBTQ students create an unwelcoming school climate and stand in the way of student success and harm their well-being. We can fight back against the fear, ignorance, and hatred motivating these bills by standing together in silent solidarity.

“As we align ourselves in silence, we demand that state leaders stop targeting the LGBTQ+ community – specifically youth – and focus instead on the real work of uplifting all Americans.”