Article Summary
The chosen article focuses on the issue of bullying of LGBTQ students in American schools and its legal repercussions. The author shows that students who are openly gay or bi, as well as those who are suspected of being gay or bi, are subjected to verbal and physical harassment in American schools (Foxhoven, 2012). Bullying has significant repercussions for individuals’ psychological health and well-being, making this issue important. Still, according to Foxhoven (2012), school authorities often fail to take adequate action to stop anti-LGBTQ harassment and assaults, and courts also refuse from interfering. Hence, comprehensive policies to target the bullying of LBGTQ students in schools are required.
Speech
Anti-homosexuality is a significant problem in the contemporary world, and many people suffer from it. According to Gerber (2014), about 80 countries still criminalized homosexuality in 2014, thus restricting personal rights and freedoms. In countries where homosexuality is not criminalized, persons from the LGBTQ community still face discrimination and harassment. For example, Foxhoven (2012) reports that many school students who are openly gay or suspected of being gay are harassed verbally and physically. Bullying can damage people both physically and mentally, thus impacting gay people’s quality of life.
Workplace discrimination is also persistent, and it affects the range of career opportunities available to LGBTQ persons. TIlesik (2011) found that applicants who appeared to be gay were less likely to be considered for a job. This trend was particularly prominent among employers who highlighted the importance of traditionally masculine traits and qualities (Tilesik, 2011). Overall, the discrimination faced by people from the LGBTQ community has a substantial influence on their lives, and it is essential to address this problem to protect the rights of LGBTQ people.
References
Foxhoven, J. (2012). In search of federal remedies for LGBTQ students who are victims of assault and harassment in school. Buffalo Journal of Gender, Law and Social Policy, 21(1), 45-77.
Gerber, P. (2014). Living a life of crime: The ongoing criminalisation of homosexuality within the Commonwealth. Alternative Law Journal, 39(2), 78-83.
Tilcsik, A. (2011). Pride and prejudice: Employment discrimination against openly gay men in the United States. American Journal of Sociology, 117(2), 586-626.