Word is out on gay support in schools

[William769]

IN A gritty urban neighbourhood of Los Angeles, where gangs and guns often rule, lesbian and gay students talk of their local school as a haven that allows them to be themselves away from the sometimes harsh judgment of their families.

Predominantly Latino and Catholic, the students, who attend James Monroe High School in North Hills in the San Fernando Valley, draw strength from one another and from an alliance with straight kids with whom they meet regularly to promote friendship and acceptance.

"This is the most gay-friendly school I've ever attended," says 18-year-old Hugo Meza, a senior, or year 12, student.

Adds Mary Grace Ylagan, also 18: "I became myself when I came out here, and people have supported me. They accept me for who I am. My family, they don't give me the support that I need. So I love being in school."

http://www.smh.com.au/world/word-is-out-on-gay-support-in-schools-20111125-1nzcw.html

[xchrom]

1. recommend

[Smarmie Doofus]

2. Me too. n/t

[Betsy Ross]

3. I went to JMHS 50 years ago.

Thanks when it opened. Surprised to hear that it is now primarily Latino and Catholic but glad to hear that the environment is supportive of gay kids.