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Friday, June 17, 2011

Duncan Says Discriminating Against LGBT Clubs Violates Law - High School Notes (usnews.com)

Duncan Says Discriminating Against LGBT Clubs Violates Law - High School Notes (usnews.com)

Duncan Says Discriminating Against LGBT Clubs Violates Law

Secretary of Education Arne Duncan warned school districts Tuesday against attempting to shut down lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) clubs and gay-straight alliances.

In the open "Dear Colleagues" letter, Duncan stressed that LGBT students are often the target of bullying and verbal harassment, and that after-school clubs can help students cope with the bullying.

"By encouraging dialogue and providing supportive resources, these groups can help make schools safe and affirming environments for everyone," Duncan wrote. Duncan claims that some school districts around the country have attempted to block gay-straight alliances from forming, and that barring their formation or shutting down LGBT clubs is illegal according to