Beech Acres Parenting Center is opposed to the RESOLUTION TO OPPOSE THE PROPOSED CHANGES TO TITLE IX AND TO AFFIRM PARENTAL RIGHTS AND LOCAL CONTROL OF OHIO K-12 EDUCATIONrecently approved by the Ohio State Board of Education. Beech Acres remains opposed to any legislation in the United States that is not based in a scientific understanding of child development.  

What is the RESOLUTION TO OPPOSE THE PROPOSED CHANGES TO TITLE IX AND TO AFFIRM PARENTAL RIGHTS AND LOCAL CONTROL OF OHIO K-12 EDUCATION?

In July of 2022, the U.S. Department of Education proposed amending the landmark civil rights legislation to more clearly protect students from all forms of sexual discrimination, including a provision to protect LGBTQI+ from discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and sex characteristics. The resolution passed by the Ohio State Board of Education opposes these changes. 

Beech Acres Parenting Center Supports Families No Matter How They Are Put Together

Beech Acres supports creating psychologically safe school environments where children can be their authentic selves. We know that this improves their development and creates a welcoming, inclusive culture for all students. This is especially important for those in minority and marginalized groups who are at higher risk of attempting and dying by suicide. The above resolution ignores scientifically accepted understandings of sex and gender. 

What Can Caregivers Do?

Beech Acres Parenting Center is a safe space where all families are welcome and supported. If your family values include teaching your children about the different experiences other kids & families may be experiencing, here are some things you can try.  

  • Start by discovering and establishing exactly what your family’s values are. These may include acceptance and inclusion. 
  • Uncover your family’s unique strengths and begin developing those. Your family’s strengths many include love of learning, curiosity, and hope.  
  • Address your own implicit bias first and brush up on your understanding of LGBTQ terminology. This should be done introspectively and individually. Remember your kids are quick to notice your “tells”.  
  • Intentionally vary what media you consume with a focus on incorporating and including diverse media and voices. Explain why it is important for minority populations to see themselves in books, movies, tv, advertising, and social media.  

Finally, discuss how your family can be open, inclusive, and kind to everyone they encounter. Advocate for your child, their friends, and your community. Increasing acceptance and reducing bias creates a positive, welcoming environment for everyone. 

Additional Resources:

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

The Trevor Project

Family Acceptance Project Family Behaviors that Increase Your LGBTQ Child’s Health & Well-Being