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NEA Issue Explainer

LGBTQ+ Rights

As Americans, we believe in equality and fairness for all, and together we can end discrimination against LGBTQ+ people.
NEA members hold rainbox flags NEA
At the 2019 Representative Assembly, NEA members and then-President Lily Eskelsen García participate in a pride rally.
By: National Education Association
Published: December 2, 2021
This issue explainer originally appeared on NEA.org

In South Carolina

Legislative attacks on LGBTQ+ people and children, in particular, have been increasing in South Carolina. Just as we stand up for all people and children across race, place, and faith, The SCEA believes it is our duty to stand up for all educators, school staff, and the children we serve regardless of the makeup of their family, their gender identity, or who they love.

LGBTQ+ people are subject to a patchwork of state and local laws that leave them vulnerable to discrimination in their daily lives, sending the message that they are second-class citizens. 

Discrimination against those who are LGBTQ+, wherever it exists, violates our nation’s core values.

LGBTQ+ youth are particularly vulnerable to prejudice and are more likely than their peers to be bullied, harassed, and attempt suicide.

We need federal laws that afford LGBTQ+ people consistent and explicit protections from discrimination, no matter where they live and work.

Saul Ramos
“Our students always deserve better, and we are the key to creating that success. Let’s stand with them and remind them every single day that they are perfect just the way they are.”
Quote by: Saul Ramos, Paraeducator/Braillist, Worcester Public Schools, Massachusetts

Use Your Educator Voice.

We are THE voice for educators in South Carolina. See what membership can mean for you!
The SCEA members in the Statehouse

Your Voice Matters!

Contact your elected officials at any level on any issue. Use this link to find their contact information, including email, phone number, and even their Facebook or Twitter.
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Your Voice. Our Power. Their Future.

The SCEA is an affiliate of the largest professional association of educators in the country. As the leading advocate for the schools South Carolina students deserve, The SCEA works to promote quality public education and to support public school employees.
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The South Carolina Education Association is a state affiliate of the National Education Association (NEA), the nation's largest professional employee organization. NEA has affiliate organizations in every state and in more than 14,000 communities across the United States.

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