PFLAG New Orleans is just all right with me

Here's what I like to see. From the Phyllabuster listserv:

Phyllis,

I was forwarded a copy of a recent conversation on the Phyllabuster list, regarding the Louisiana safe schools bill, and the work of PFLAG’s New Orleans chapter. I wanted to personally respond, and hope that you will post my message on your full list, so your readers have a complete picture of what is happening in New Orleans.

The truth is that our New Orleans chapter will not be testifying in favor of the non-inclusive bill. Our chapter leaders were originally led to believe that H.B. 674 was inclusive of transgender students. But, upon learning that was not the case, the chapter immediately withdrew its plans to address the legislature in support of the bill.

Instead, our national office is working closely with our supporters on the ground in New Orleans to educate the public – and lawmakers – about why an inclusive bill is so essential. We will be working on op-ed placements and other actions to call on Representative Leger and other leaders to make the necessary modifications so that this legislation covers every student, and leaves no child behind.

PFLAG, as always, remains committed to ensuring that students are protected from bullying and harassment regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity or expression. Our commitment to that principle has never wavered, and never will.

I hope this is a helpful clarification.

Thank you,

Steve

Steve Ralls
Director of Communications
Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) National
www.pflag.org