Dear Supporters of LGBTQ+ Inclusivity and Education,

We need your help to make a significant difference in the lives of LGBTQ+ students, educators, and families within the Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS). The School Board will be voting on Item H-11, which aims to declare October as LGBTQ+ History Month. Your voice can be instrumental in securing a YES vote! Below, you’ll find a sample email template that you can use to express your support to the School Board Members. Simply copy & paste (Instructions) the template, fill in the brackets with appropriate details, and send it to the email addresses of the Board Members provided. Personalizing the email with your own experiences and perspective will make it even more powerful. Let’s take this opportunity to show that we stand for a more inclusive and equitable educational environment for all.

Email Subject: Support for Item H-11: Declare October as LGBTQ+ History Month in M-DCPS

Email Body: Dear [School Board Member’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to you today as a concerned [parent/student/educator/community member] to express my strong support for Item H-11, which would declare October as LGBTQ+ History Month within the Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS).

Recognizing October as LGBTQ+ History Month is not just a symbolic gesture; it is a vital educational initiative that has the power to create a more inclusive, accepting environment for all students. The month serves as an opportunity to highlight the significant contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals to our society, history, and culture. It helps to challenge the prejudices and misconceptions that persist, even today.

The mental health statistics concerning LGBTQ+ youth are deeply alarming. Research shows that these young people are four times more likely to attempt suicide compared to their non-LGBTQ+ peers. Transgender and nonbinary youth face even greater risks, including higher rates of depression and suicidal ideation. Declaring October as LGBTQ+ History Month sends a strong, affirming message to these vulnerable youth: they are valued, they are important, and they are loved.

By voting YES on Item H-11, you have the opportunity to contribute to a more equitable educational system that acknowledges the rich tapestry of our diverse community. A YES vote is a step towards building a safer, more inclusive environment where all students can thrive, free from harassment and discrimination.

I urge you to stand with School Board Member Ms. Lucia Baez-Geller, who has courageously sponsored this item, and with the countless LGBTQ+ students, educators, and families who are a part of the M-DCPS community.

Thank you for considering my views on this critical issue. I sincerely hope you will vote in favor of Item H-11.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

[Your Affiliation]

[Your Contact Information]

Feel free to customize this template to better reflect your personal views and experiences. Thank you for taking action to support this important cause.

Here are the email addresses of the School Board Members: