LGBTQ+ Students Face Increased Harassment and Unsafe Environments in Schools

A recent survey conducted by Glisten, formerly known as GLSEN, reveals alarming statistics regarding the safety and well-being of LGBTQ+ students in schools across the United States. The findings, part of the 2025 National School Climate Survey, were presented at the National Education Association headquarters in Washington, D.C., and are based on responses from 2,800 students. The report indicates that nearly two-thirds of LGBTQ+ youth feel unsafe at school due to their sexual orientation or gender identity, with only one in three students expressing a positive outlook towards attending school.

The Advocate

The survey highlights that 86 percent of transgender and gender-expansive students avoid certain school spaces, while 62 percent report experiencing harassment or assault related to their identity. Additionally, over half of LGBTQ+ students reported facing discrimination, including being denied access to facilities that align with their gender identity. The report also notes that nearly half of LGBTQ+ students of color experienced harassment based on their race or ethnicity.

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Melanie Willingham-Jaggers, CEO of Glisten, emphasized the detrimental impact of political pressures and inconsistent policies on school environments, stating, “You can judge the moral character of a country by how they treat their young people.” The report suggests that a phenomenon termed “negative neutrality” exists, where schools fail to adequately address LGBTQ+ issues despite having policies in place.

The Advocate

In response to the hostile environment, many students are forming their own support systems. Willingham-Jaggers noted that young people are increasingly coming together to find solutions, often feeling they cannot rely on adults for intervention. A parent shared a story of her child forming a friendship with a nonbinary student, highlighting the importance of peer support in navigating school challenges. However, this same student later left the school due to severe bullying, illustrating the gaps in institutional support.

The Advocate

Educators at the event acknowledged the challenges in addressing LGBTQ+ issues, often stemming from uncertainty and fear of making mistakes. One educator pointed out that silence can be as harmful as negative actions, urging teachers to take proactive steps, such as correcting misgendering and establishing clear expectations for respectful behavior. Princess R. Moss, vice president of the NEA, reinforced the importance of creating inclusive environments, stating, “When students feel seen and safe, they learn.”

The Advocate

The survey's findings reflect a broader national climate where debates over LGBTQ+ rights, particularly those affecting transgender youth, continue to escalate. Willingham-Jaggers warned that current societal trends are leading to harmful self-perceptions among youth, stating, “Our children are being groomed to hate themselves and each other.”

The Advocate

As discussions around LGBTQ+ rights evolve, the need for supportive and inclusive school environments remains critical for the well-being and academic success of LGBTQ+ students.

The Advocate

• “You can judge the moral character of a country by how they treat their young people,” — Melanie Willingham-Jaggers, CEO of Glisten

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• “Oftentimes, saying nothing can be just as harmful, if not more harmful,” — Educator

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• “When students feel seen and safe, they learn,” — Princess R. Moss, Vice President of the NEA

The Advocate

• “Our children are being groomed to hate themselves and each other,” — Melanie Willingham-Jaggers, CEO of Glisten

The Advocate