St. Maarten/St. Martin Alliance For Equality (SAFE) is extremely interested in working with unions and teachers concerning the plight of LGBT (lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender) students on the island.
This was the LGBT organization’s response to the statements by WITU President Claire Elshot last week Friday.
This is a very positive development as regards teachers’ and others’ concern for LGBTI students and/or those perceived as such. If authorities believe the wellbeing of these youth is being threatened, the. Every effort should be made to ensure they are safe in schools. Getting comprehensive and unbiased information is a appropriate place to start. Most important, such information should be disseminated to all students in an age appropriate manner soonest. SAFE should consider offering its resources and knowledge and urge that it is part of any future discussion. That bullying is now a concern globally, particularly for LGBTI youth who have a high rate of suicide can be referenced. That it is the subjects of a UN resolution can also be mentioned
very important to place safe as a resource centre and acknowledge linkage with other Caribbean NGO who support the work and can also be by extension resources too