Despite common fears, the presence of same-sex couples at school events has rarely proven to be disruptive. Nonetheless, it is important to remain vigilant and attentive to any safety needs. When needed, additional security should protect the safety of all students and not single out or focus on LGBTQ students.

Prejudice and homophobia are realities. Adults have a professional responsibility to protect students from anti-gay and anti-trans discrimination.

Adult allies, like parents or teachers, can talk to their children’s or students’ principal or other administrator, reminding them that the law requires the school to take appropriate security measures to ensure the safety of all students at any event.

Additional ways adult allies can help protect young people at proms and dances include:
• Informing administrations and school boards about students’ constitutional rights, and encouraging these authorities to protect them.
• Encouraging school boards and administrations to pass antidiscrimination policies that explicitly include sexual orientation and gender identity.
• Talking to students before prom to address questions and concerns.

Lambda Legal can provide resources that describe students’ rights, and can communicate directly with school policymakers and decision makers if need be. Contact Lambda Legal at 866-542-8336 or visit www.lambdalegal.org/help.