Story perspectives

Survey: 62% of LGBTQ+ Students Feel Unsafe at School

3/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

A Glisten survey of 2,800 students shows nearly two-thirds of LGBTQ+ students feel unsafe at school because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Among transgender and gender-expansive students, 86% avoid certain school spaces.
62% experience harassment or assault.
Advocates, including Glisten CEO Melanie Willingham-Jaggers, say political pressures and inconsistent policies contribute to this climate of fear and call on schools to take action.
The findings underscore the urgent need for inclusive environments to foster student safety and well-being, as many students report discrimination and a lack of support from adults.

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Story summary

A Glisten survey of 2,800 students shows nearly two-thirds of LGBTQ+ students feel unsafe at school because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Among transgender and gender-expansive students, 86% avoid certain school spaces.
62% experience harassment or assault.
Advocates, including Glisten CEO Melanie Willingham-Jaggers, say political pressures and inconsistent policies contribute to this climate of fear and call on schools to take action.
The findings underscore the urgent need for inclusive environments to foster student safety and well-being, as many students report discrimination and a lack of support from adults.