SB 777 & AB 394 Pass the Legislature—Await the Governor’s Signature

On September 11, The California Assembly passed SB 777, the Student Civil Rights Act, in a 42-19 vote. On the very same day, the Senate passed AB 394 (Safe Place to Learn Act) with a 24-12 vote. Both bills, which have now passed both houses of the Legislature, are now on their way to be considered by Governor Schwarzenegger who has until mid-October to make his decision.

SB 777 would help clarify the laws protecting students from harassment and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. It would help to ensure that all students in CA-funded schools and educational programs—including students at alternative schools, charter schools, community colleges, and regular public schools—would be protected equally. Read more about this bill, which is sponsored by Equality California (EQCA).

AB 394 would help This seeks to provide school districts with specific steps they can take to ensure that they are protecting students from harassment and/or discrimination based on real or perceived sexual orientation and gender identity and implementing the CA Student Safety and Violence Prevention Act of 2000. Read more about this bill, which is sponsored by EQCA & Asian Americans for Civil Rights & Equality (AACRE).

Speak Out to Schwarzenegger Week!!! (October 1-5)

The next step is to make sure the Governor hears from California students on the importance of ensuring schools are safe and supportive for LGBTQ and ally students. Join GSA Network for Speak Out to Schwarzenegger Week (October 1-5) where you and other members of your GSA can join a postcard writing campaign, lobby at the Governor's district office in your region, make phone calls, and show your support for Safe Schools For All! GSA Network will be blasting out info to all CA GSAs during the next few weeks about how to get involved or email mailto:advocacy@gsanetwork.org for information.

What was Queer Youth Advocacy Day?

Queer Youth Advocacy Day was a youth-led day of lobbying, advocacy training, and educational workshops that took place at the Capitol in Sacramento on March 26, 2007. It was a super opportunity for hundreds of CA youth activists just like you to unite and educate lawmakers on the needs of LGBTQ youth and what is needed to end harassment and discrimination in school. This event is co-sponsored by GSA Network, BIENESTAR, and Equality California Institute.

Read more about what happened at QYAD 2007.

Check out photos from the big day!