Support for Gay Educators on the Rise

Findings in a recent Pew Survey show that support for gay educators is on the rise. Only 28 percent of people think a school board should fire educators based on their sexual orientation. The survey marks the first time this percentage has dropped below 30—a strong decrease from 51 percent in 1987.

“I believe that the national conversation that is happening regarding sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender self-expression has made a huge difference,” says Mary Paradise, co-chair of the NEA Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Caucus. “When more and more people stand up to support their sons and daughters, their neighbors and friends, their home decorators and hairdressers, their teachers and health care providers, it makes a difference.”  

—Maren MacIntyre