Stories — Queer Family Network

An Amendment to Guarantee
Protections for All New Yorkers
Right now, New York’s State Constitution does not protect all New Yorkers — for example, pregnant New Yorkers, women, LGBTQIA+ people, those with disabilities, older adults, and people from different countries and cultures.
The New York State Equal Rights Amendment is a proposed amendment to New York’s State Constitution that would add to the existing constitutional protections for race and religion, and create explicit protections for people who experience discrimination.

The Dignity for All Students Act (often referred to as “DASA” or “The Dignity Act”) is a New York state law that intends to create a learning environment for ALL students that is free from discrimination, intimidation, taunting, harassment, and bullying (including cyberbullying). Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The law states that no student shall be subjected to discrimination, harassment, or bullying (including cyberbullying) by employees or students on school property, off school property at a school function, electronically, or when the act may create a risk of substantial disruption at school.
The Dignity Act provides general guidelines for schools and districts. Your district is required to develop specific policies and procedures for the Dignity Act that can be found on the district website.
General information about the Dignity Act can be found in the Dignity Act Information Guide.
The NEW PALTZ CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT put together this very useful handbook for parents.

Defense of Democracy (Hudson Valley Chapter) and Queer Family Network have partnered to defend children in the Hudson Valley who are facing increased attacks by extremist groups.
In February of 2023, former Assemblyman Kieran Lalor, an adult and elected official, published a story on social media claiming that the Gay/Straight Alliance club at John Jay High School was marketing to toddlers at the school’s winter carnival, “the ideology they represent is often…hostile to those who hold traditional views on sexuality and marriage,” the article read, “Come for the bouncy castles, stay for the indoctrination.” Since that article was published, LGBT+ children at the high school have been verbally abused, attacked on social media, and had their property vandalized. The school principal also received a death threat.
John Jay Senior High School - Right now we need to show up and speak up at School Board Meetings - to protect our LGBTQ+ youth. Next meeting is May 13th, 2024.