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On May 13, 2011, for the first time in history, the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights will host a ground-breaking hearing addressing inter-student violence (including, verbal and physical assaults, teasing, bullying and any other form of harassment) targeted against lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth.
A 2009 study by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network surveyed middle and high school students across the country and found that nine out of ten students reported experiencing harassment at their school within the past year based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. In addition, two-thirds said they felt unsafe at school because of who they are.
Harassment to LGBT individuals is a violation of their right to security of person and freedom from discrimination. All individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, should be able to enjoy the full range of human rights-without exceptions.