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Say No to Bigotry and Intolerance

Isolation. Ostracism. Fear. Abuse. Such is the life of many lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth. The marginalization and bigotry infects homes, classrooms and workplaces.

Fortunately, some of our elected officials are working to end discrimination against LGBT youth.  Unfortunately, there are others in state government who continue to fan the flames of intolerance.

In March, the New York State Office of Children & Family Services (OCFS) enacted a policy to address the discrimination faced by LGBT youth.  The new policy requires that OCFS staff receive training on how to work with LGBT youth.  It also requires the provision of reasonable accommodations by letting young people in OCFS facilities have access to clothing that corresponds with their gender identity. 

But when the media publicized the new policy, certain state lawmakers decided to fan the flames of intolerance and make transgender youth the target of derogatory and bigoted remarks.

We need your help in sending a clear message to Albany that our state’s policies must reflect dignity and respect for all youth, regardless of their sexual orientation!

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Talking Points

  • LGBT youth in the juvenile detention system desperately need to be free from harassment and abuse.
  • OCFS Commissioner Gladys Carrion is seeking to make this happen through enacting a compassionate policy.
  • The NYCLU applauds her efforts. 
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Subject:
Please continue supporting LGBTQ youth

Dear [ Decision Maker ],

I am a supporter of the NYCLU and write to express my support for the new OCFS policy that acknowledges the needs and respects the identity of LGBTQ youth detained in juvenile facilities in New York.

LGBTQ youth in juvenile detention facilities have often been the target of abuse and discrimination, both before their detention and after. The new OCFS policy recognizes and respects the identity of LGBTQ youth by addressing the discrimination they face and allowing them to dress in a manner that is simultaneously consistent with their identity and the detention facility environment. Importantly, it requires that OCFS staff receive training on how to work with LGBTQ youth.

This policy embodies key values of tolerance, respect and non-discrimination.

We appreciate Commissioner Carrion's leadership in implementing this policy and hope that this approach will serve as a model for other agencies.

We urge you to stand behind this policy, disassociate your office from the rhetoric of intolerance and resist policies based on misunderstanding and prejudice that would deny the humanity of vulnerable youth and push them further into isolation, ostracism, fear and abuse.

Please note my support for the new OCFS policy and for the youth who are safer because of its implementation.

Sincerely,
[Your name]
[Your address]
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Send this message to:
  • Governor David Paterson (if you live in New York)
  • cc: Commissioner Gladys Carrion
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